Overview of Calystegia collina (Greene) Brummitt ssp. collina
Calystegia collina (Greene) Brummitt ssp. collina, also known as Hill country false bindweed, is a herbaceous perennial plant in the morning glory family (Convolvulaceae). It is native to North America and is commonly found in the central and western parts of the United States.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known by several names, including Hill country false bindweed, Small bindweed, Collared bindweed and Shrubby bindweed, among others.
Appearance
The plant usually grows up to three feet and has a shrub-like appearance. The leaves are oval and green, measuring about ½ inch to 2 inches long and ½ inch to 1½ inches wide. The flowers are white or pink in color, trumpet-shaped, and have a long, narrow, cylindrical tube. The fruits are 1-2 cm long capsules containing four seeds.
Uses
Calystegia collina (Greene) Brummitt ssp. collina is not commonly cultivated for any specific purpose. However, the plant has various medicinal properties and has been used in traditional herbal medicine to alleviate several ailments. The root of the plant is used to make a decoction that is used to reduce inflammation, treat digestive problems, and relieve pain caused by arthritis. The leaves are applied topically to treat skin problems such as rashes and burns.
The plant also has ecological values as it provides shelter and food to several species of insects, mainly bees and butterflies.
Light Requirements
Calystegia collina (Greene) Brummitt ssp. collina prefers full sunlight to partial shade conditions. It grows best in locations that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. In shaded areas, its growth may be stunted, and it may not flower.
Temperature Requirements
The preferred temperature range for the growth of Calystegia collina (Greene) Brummitt ssp. collina is between 15 and 25 °C. It can tolerate low temperatures and frost, and is known to grow in areas with a cold climate. However, very high temperatures can cause the leaves to become wilted and pale.
Soil Requirements
Calystegia collina (Greene) Brummitt ssp. collina prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH level should be between 5.5 and 7.5. It can grow in various types of soil, including sandy and loamy soils. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged soils, which can cause root rot and stunted growth.
Cultivation Methods
Calystegia collina (Greene) Brummitt ssp. collina, commonly known as Hillside Bindweed, grows best in well-draining soils in full or partial sun exposure. It is a perennial plant that typically grows up to two feet tall and prefers dry or moderately moist soils.
Watering Needs
Calystegia collina requires moderate watering. It is best to water the plant deeply and less frequently rather than shallowly and often. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Overwatering may lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Fertilization
It is not necessary to fertilize Calystegia collina regularly. The plant can thrive in nutrient-poor soils. However, if you want to boost the plant's growth, you can add slow-release granular fertilizer to the soil during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the package and do not exceed the recommended amounts.
Pruning
Calystegia collina does not require pruning. However, you can pinch back the tips of the plant to promote branching and encourage bushier growth. Deadheading the spent flowers can also help to prolong the blooming period. Cut back the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged growth.
Propagation of Calystegia collina
Calystegia collina (Greene) Brummitt ssp. collina, commonly known as Hill morning glory, is a perennial plant that is native to western North America. It is a relatively easy plant to propagate and can be propagated through various methods:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Calystegia collina is through seed. The seeds germinate easily and will produce a viable plant in just a few weeks. To propagate through seed, follow these steps:
- Collect seeds from a mature plant in the fall.
- Clean seed by separating it from any plant matter and debris.
- Sow seeds into a potting mix at a depth of about ¼ inch.
- Water the soil regularly and place the pot in a warm, well-lit area.
- Within two weeks, the seeds should germinate, and young plants will begin to grow.
Division Propagation
Calystegia collina can also be propagated through division. Division is best done during the spring, just as the plant is emerging from dormancy. To propagate through division, follow these steps:
- Lift a mature plant carefully from the ground using a garden fork.
- Divide the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has enough roots to sustain it.
- Plant each division into a pot filled with potting mix.
- Water the soil and place the pots in a warm, well-lit area.
- The divisions should begin to grow soon after planting.
Cuttings Propagation
Calystegia collina can also be propagated through cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from non-flowering stems during the growing season of the plant. To propagate through cuttings, follow these steps:
- Take cuttings from non-flowering stems.
- Remove all leaves from the lower portion of the cutting.
- Dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone powder.
- Plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist potting soil.
- Water the soil and place the pot in a warm, well-lit area.
- Within a few weeks, roots should develop, and the cutting will begin to grow.
Disease Management
Calystegia collina is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it may occasionally be affected by some fungal infections. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to leaf drop. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease forms a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can be managed by improving air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
- Root Rot: This fungal disease causes the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth and yellowing leaves. It can be managed by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Pest Management
Calystegia collina is generally pest-resistant, but it may occasionally be affected by some insect pests. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant:
- Aphids: These small insects can cluster on the leaves and stems, sucking the sap and causing distortion of the plant tissue. They can be managed by spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and browning of leaves, as well as webbing. They can be managed by spraying with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing significant damage. They can be managed by handpicking or using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
In addition to these measures, it is important to maintain overall plant health by providing adequate water, nutrients, and sunlight. Regular pruning and weeding can also help prevent the buildup of pests and diseases.
