Overview: Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. malacophylla (Greene) Brummitt
Calystegia fulcrata is a species of plants in the morning glory family which is native to Western North America but can also be found in regions of Asia. This plant species is commonly known as Fulcrum bindweed, among other names, and is widely cultivated for its beauty and medical benefits.
Appearance: Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. malacophylla (Greene) Brummitt
Calystegia fulcrata is a trailing perennial herb with stems that can reach up to 3 meters or more in length. The stems are slender, glabrous, and usually rough-textured. The leaves are arrow-shaped with cordate bases and are of variable size. The white to pink-colored flowers are funnel-shaped and measure around 2-3 cm in length; the fruits are capsule-shaped and contain four black seeds.
Uses: Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. malacophylla (Greene) Brummitt
Calystegia fulcrata has several applications in the medical field, notably in traditional Chinese medicine. The plant is believed to possess anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, and it is used to treat inflammation and spasms. The plant has also been used as a remedy for gastrointestinal disorders and other diseases. Additionally, Calystegia fulcrata is an ornamental plant that is often grown in gardens and landscapes for its beautiful flowers and foliage. It is also used for erosion control due to its vigorous growth habit.
In conclusion, Calystegia fulcrata is a species of plant that possess some notable medical and ornamental properties. Its trailing stems, arrow-shaped leaves, and funnel-shaped flowers make it unique and alluring.Light Requirements
The Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. malacophylla (Greene) Brummitt plant requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can adversely affect its growth and flowering capacity.
Temperature Requirements
The Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. malacophylla (Greene) Brummitt plant thrives in warm to hot temperatures. It prefers temperatures ranging between 70? - 90? (21? - 32?). Extreme variations in temperature, especially frosty conditions, should be avoided as it can harm the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. malacophylla (Greene) Brummitt plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil with slightly acidic to alkaline pH levels ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should also have organic matter content to aid better growth. The plant can tolerate soil with low fertility, but it is better grown in soil that is rich in nutrients.
Cultivation
The Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. malacophylla (Greene) Brummitt, also known as soft-leaved morning glory, is a beautiful plant that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. This plant is easy to grow and maintain. It prefers full sun to partial shade exposure and grows well in well-draining soil. It can thrive in various soil types, including sandy, clay, or loamy soil. Ideally, the soil should have a pH of 6.0 to 6.8, which is slightly acidic to neutral.
Watering Needs
Soft-leaved Morning Glory requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting water to puddle around the plants to avoid root rot. Water the plants deeply about once a week. However, you can increase the frequency during a prolonged dry spell. If the plant starts to wilt or the leaves appear weak and droopy, it may be a sign of underwatering.
Fertilization
You can fertilize soft-leaved morning glory once or twice a year. Use organic fertilizers such as well-decomposed compost, manure, or leaf mold to add nutrients to the soil. Apply the organic manure on the soil around the base of the plant and gently mix with the topsoil. Avoid using chemical fertilizers that may damage the roots and cause nutrient accumulation in the soil.
Pruning
Soft-leaved morning glory requires minimal pruning. You can trim the plant lightly to keep it under control and to shape it to your preferred size. Prune the plant after the blooming season, which is between spring and early summer. You can remove dead or damaged stems, foliage, and seed pods to encourage new growth. Be careful with the pruning process to avoid damaging the stems or removing more foliage than necessary.
Propagation of Calystegia fulcrata ssp. malacophylla
Calystegia fulcrata ssp. malacophylla, commonly known as soft-leaved morning glory, is a herbaceous perennial plant in the Convolvulaceae family. This plant is found in coastal areas of California and Baja California.
Seed Propagation
The plant can be propagated by seed. The seeds can be collected from mature dry fruit capsules that have turned brown. Once collected, the seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place until sowing time. To promote germination, soak the seed in warm water for 24 hours before sowing in a well-drained potting mix. Cover the seed with a thin layer of soil.
It is important to keep soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate. In about two weeks, the seedling will emerge. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individually small pots.
Cutting Propagation
Softwood cuttings is another propagation method that can be used for Calystegia fulcrata ssp. malacophylla. Softwood cuttings are taken during the growing season when the plant's stem is still flexible and green. Cuttings should be about 4-6 inches in length and should not have any flowers or buds present.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained potting mixture. Cover cuttings with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and place them in a brightly lit area out of direct sunlight. In about 2-4 weeks, the cuttings should root and can be transplanted into small pots.
Disease Management
Calystegia fulcrata ssp. malacophylla is known to be prone to several fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. Powdery mildew is characterized by a white powdery coating on the leaves and can be controlled by removing infected parts of the plant, increasing air circulation, and applying a fungicide. Rust is identified by yellow or orange spots on the leaves and can be prevented by removing infected plants and using a fungicide. Leaf spot can be identified by brown or black spots on the leaves and can be prevented by providing good air circulation, removing infected parts of the plant, and using a fungicide if required.
Pest Management
Calystegia fulcrata ssp. malacophylla is susceptible to several pests, including spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. Spider mites are identified by yellow or white spots on the leaves and can be managed by spraying the plant with water, increasing humidity, and using an insecticidal soap. Aphids and whiteflies are identified as small insects on the leaves and can be managed by using a strong spray of water to dislodge them, using sticky traps, and using an insecticidal soap if needed.
