Plant Description:
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt is a herbaceous perennial plant from the morning glory family (Convolvulaceae). The plant can grow up to 1 m in length. The leaves are simple, alternate, and arrow-shaped, measuring 5-10 cm in length. The flowers are pink or white and funnel-shaped, measuring 3-5 cm in diameter, and bloom from May to September.
Origin and Distribution:
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt is endemic to California and can be found in mountainous and coastal areas of the state. The plant is commonly found in damp soils, along streams, and in disturbed areas like roadsides and fields.
Common Names:
The common name for Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt is none known, but it is sometimes called Fulcrum bindweed.
Uses:
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt is not known to have any medicinal uses. However, like many other members of the morning glory family, it has ornamental value. The plant is sometimes used to cover fences or trellises. Because of its vigorous growth habit, it can easily become invasive and should be carefully managed in the garden.
Light Requirements
Calystegia fulcrata subsp. pedicellata thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can adapt to low light conditions, but it prefers bright light to support healthy growth and flowering. When planted in a shaded area, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
This species thrives in warm temperatures, making it well-suited to grow in Mediterranean climates. The ideal temperature range for the plant's growth is between 18°C to 30°C. It is generally adaptable and can grow in regions with winter frost, but it may die back in extremely cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Calystegia fulcrata subsp. pedicellata grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant can tolerate different soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the soil must be moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering and poorly-draining soils can lead to root rot and other fungal infections
Cultivation Methods
The Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt is a perennial plant that thrives well in sandy or loamy soils. The plant can be propagated through seed or root division. To propagate the plant through seed, sow the seeds in seedling trays filled with potting soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil to aid germination and maintain a moist environment. The plant can be transplanted into the garden after 6-8 weeks of germination. The propagation through root division involves digging up the plant and dividing the roots into sections, replant the divided sections in well-draining soil.
Watering Needs
The Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt requires regular watering but do not allow the soil to become waterlogged. It is essential to water the plant deeply but less often, ensuring that the topsoil is dry before watering again. During hot summers, the plant requires more watering to prevent the soil from drying out. Always water the plant at the base to avoid splashing water on the leaves and foliage, which can cause mold and mildew growth.
Fertilization
The Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt requires nutrient-rich soil to thrive well. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, ideally in spring and summer, to provide sufficient nutrients for growth and increased blooming. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to lush green foliage and fewer flowers.
Pruning
The Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt requires light pruning to maintain its shape and encourage growth. Prune the plant in late fall or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead or diseased stems and trim the plant to a desirable height. The pruning process will also promote bushier growth and increased blooming.
Propagation of Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt
The propagation of Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt can be done through various methods including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation via seeds
The seeds of Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt can be collected from the plant's dry, brown capsules. The collected seeds should be sown into a well-draining soil mix in a pot or container. The pot or container should be kept in a partially shaded area and watered regularly. It can take anywhere from several weeks to several months for the seeds to germinate, depending on environmental conditions.
Propagation via cuttings
Propagation via cuttings is another viable option for Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt. Cuttings should be taken from stems that are still actively growing and should include at least one or two leaves. The cuttings should be inserted into a well-draining soil mix and kept in a partially shaded area. The cuttings will root and establish themselves over several weeks to a couple of months.
Propagation via division
Propagation via division of the plant's rhizomes is the third method for propagating Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt. This method is the most reliable as it creates new plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant. The process involves digging up a mature plant and dividing the rhizomes into smaller sections. Each section should contain at least one growing point or shoot and a healthy mass of roots. The divided segments can then be planted into a new location where they can re-establish and grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. pedicellata (Jepson) Brummitt
Like any other plant species, Calystegia fulcrata is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are the common ones you should watch out for and how to manage them:
Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that manifests as a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It thrives in warm and humid environments and can cause stunted growth and leaf drop. To manage powdery mildew, ensure proper air circulation around the plant, keep the foliage dry, and use a fungicide.
2. Leaf Spot
Leaf spot disease causes the leaves of the plant to develop brown, black, or yellow spots. The spots can merge, causing the leaves to wither and die. Leaf spot disease is caused by different fungi, and the best management approach is to use a fungicide and promptly remove and dispose of affected leaves.
Pests
1. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck on the sap of the plant. They can cause yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and eventually, the death of the plant. To manage spider mites, regularly mist your plant with water, use insecticidal soap, or introduce predatory insects such as ladybirds and lacewings.
2. Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant's vascular system, weakening the plant and slowing its growth. They produce honeydew, which attracts ants and can cause sooty molds to grow on the plant. To manage aphids, regularly wash your plants with a strong stream of water, use insecticidal soap, or introduce predatory insects such as ladybirds and lacewings.
3. Caterpillars
Caterpillars can cause severe damage to the plant by eating large chunks of foliage. To manage caterpillars, either hand-pick them off the plant or use a natural or chemical pesticide.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests is vital in keeping your Calystegia fulcrata healthy and thriving. Regularly monitoring the plant and taking prompt action when necessary is key to preventing infestations and managing any outbreaks.
