Overview
Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed, also known as the crested climbing morning glory or the bush morning glory, is a plant species from the Convolvulaceae family. It is native to southern North America and Mexico and is commonly found in the wild and cultivated for ornamental purposes. The plant is known for its striking appearance and multiple uses in traditional medicine.
Description
The crested climbing morning glory is a woody vine that can grow up to 20 feet long. Its leaves are oval-shaped, about 2 to 4 inches long, and have pointed tips. The flowers are funnel-shaped, around 2 inches in diameter, and come in a variety of colors, including blue, pink, and white. The fruit is a small capsule containing four seeds.
Common Names
The Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed plant is commonly known as the crested climbing morning glory, the bush morning glory, the Mexican morning glory, the railroad creeper, and the railroad vine.
Uses
The crested climbing morning glory is widely used in traditional medicine in Mexico and other regions of southern North America. Various parts of the plant are used in the treatment of kidney problems, headaches, respiratory infections, and skin irritations. In addition, its seeds are consumed as a laxative and as a traditional remedy for stomachaches and constipation.
Due to its striking appearance, the crested climbing morning glory is also popularly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The plant's vines can be trained to climb walls, trellises, and other structures.
However, it is important to note that the crested climbing morning glory is considered an invasive species in some regions, as it can quickly spread and dominate native vegetation.
Light requirements
Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed requires moderate to bright light for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and lose its vibrant colors and patterns.
Temperature requirements
The ideal temperature range for Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed is between 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C). This plant does not tolerate extreme heat or cold and must be kept away from drafts or direct sunlight.
Soil requirements
This plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed can tolerate a slightly acidic to neutral pH range, around 6.0 to 7.0. Avoid using heavy soil mixes or soil that is prone to waterlogging as this can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation
Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed is a relatively easy plant to cultivate and care for. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, depending on the location's climate. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
When planting, ensure that the soil is moist and has adequate drainage. It is advisable to plant it in a location that receives indirect sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day. This is because direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, leading to stunted growth.
Watering Needs
Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed requires regular watering to thrive. However, the plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot. When watering, it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining and moist rather than waterlogged.
To check whether the plant needs watering, stick your finger into the soil up to about an inch deep. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water the plant. Ensure that the water penetrates the soil to the root level.
Fertilization
Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth. A slow-release fertilizer is ideal since it releases nutrients gradually, maintaining a steady supply of plant food.
It is advisable to use a balanced fertilizer, with an equal mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK), and apply it according to label instructions. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt build-up in the soil, which can harm the plant roots.
Pruning
Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and size. Pruning also helps to improve plant health by removing dead or damaged stems and leaves.
It is advisable to prune the plant during its active growth period. Make clean cuts using sharp pruning shears to avoid tearing the stem. Ensure to remove no more than one-third of the plant's foliage at a time, as doing so can stress the plant and affect its overall health.
Propagation of Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed
Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed, commonly known as cristate oakfern, can be propagated by spores, division, and rhizomes.
Propagation by Spores
The ideal time to propagate Bilderdykia scandens by spores is during the spring, when the fern is preparing to produce new fronds. The sporangia, which are small spore-containing sacs, are found on the underside of the fronds. The spores are collected once they are fully mature and released, and then sowed in suitable growing conditions.
The spores must be collected from healthy ferns and sown on a soilless mix of peat moss or vermiculite to which sand and perlite should be added. The container used to sow the spores must be covered with a plastic bag or dome and placed in a warm location with diffused light to germinate.
Propagation by Division
Bilderdykia scandens can be propagated through division; this involves separating mature, healthy ferns into smaller sections and planting them as individual plants. This method of propagation is best suited for mature individuals that have significant root and frond masses.
During the early spring or fall, mature ferns are dug up, and their roots and rhizomes are separated into smaller pieces. It is necessary to ensure that each division has a good root system and at least one frond to enable growth after planting. The new plants then should be planted into a suitable growing mixture and cared for until established.
Propagation by Rhizomes
Propagation by rhizomes is a quick and easy method for multiplying Bilderdykia scandens. The ideal time for propagation by rhizomes is in spring or early autumn. Rhizomes or lateral roots which possess buds are excavated from the parent plant and divided into smaller parts to enable the development of new plants quickly.
After the rhizomes have been divided, the new ferns should be planted into suitable growing media and should be maintained until they are able to grow on their own and develop into mature, independent ferns.
Disease Management
Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed is typically a hardy plant, but it can still fall prey to several diseases. Here are some potential diseases you may encounter with this plant, along with recommended management techniques:
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a bacterial or fungal infection that causes small, often circular spots on the plant's leaves. To manage the disease, remove infected leaves and dispose of them in the trash. Ensure proper spacing between plants to promote air circulation, and avoid overhead watering to prevent further spread of the disease.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering and poor drainage, leading to the plant's roots eventually rotting and the plant wilting or dying. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage in the plant's pot or bed, and avoid overwatering. If the plant is in a container, remove it from the pot and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil.
Pest Management
Bilderdykia scandens (L.) Greene var. cristata (Engelm. & Gray) C.F. Reed is relatively resistant to pests, but it is still vulnerable to some common insects and mites. Here are some pests and management techniques to watch out for when caring for this plant:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, often leading to stunted growth and curled, distorted leaves. To manage aphids, remove infested leaves and stems, and spray the plant with a solution of water and insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests often go unnoticed until the plant's leaves start discoloring and withering. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to knock off the mites, and apply a solution of neem oil or insecticidal soap every few days until the infestation is gone.
