Ipomoea aquatica is a common ingredient in Southeast Asia, where it grows like a water weed. Itgrows in water or on moist soil. Its stems are 2-3 metres or longer, rooting at the nodes, and they are hollow and can float.

In Singapore,Indonesia, & Malaysia, the tender shoots & leaves are usually stir-fried with chili pepper, garlic, ginger, dried shrimp paste and other spices. In Thailand it is eaten raw or in stir-fries and curries. Shoot tips and leaves can be used like spinach.

It is also known water spinach, river spinach, water morning glory, water convolvulus, Chinese spinach, Chinese Watercress, Chinese convolvulus, swamp cabbage or kangkong.

It needs a warm climate (25C), best grown under protection. Germination can be helped by soaking the large seeds in water for 24 hours.