Origin
Calystegia macrostegia (Greene) Brummitt ssp. arida (Greene) Brummitt is a plant native to the western coastal regions of North America, stretching from Alaska down to Baja California in Mexico.
Common Names
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida is commonly known as chaparral bindweed due to its natural habitat in chaparral areas. It is also referred to as coast morning glory, island false bindweed, and desert false bindweed.
Appearance
The plant typically grows as a perennial vine or trailing shrub, capable of reaching up to 10 feet in length. Its leaves are dark green, arrow-shaped, and up to 4 inches long. The flowers of Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida are trumpet-shaped and white or pink, with five petals. The plant blooms from late spring to early autumn.
Uses
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida has several uses. Native Americans use the plant to ease stomach aches, alleviate fevers, and as a remedy for snake and spider bites. Coastal tribes also used it as food and to make tea. Today, the plant is used in landscape plantings due to its attractive foliage and flowers. It's also an excellent source of nectar for honeybees and other pollinators.
Light Requirements
The Calystegia macrostegia (Greene) Brummitt ssp. arida (Greene) Brummitt grows best in full sun but can tolerate some partial shade. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Lack of sunlight may result in stunted growth and weaker stems.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers a moderate climate. It grows well in USDA zones 8-10, where the average annual temperature ranges from 50-80°F. It can withstand high temperatures but may require more frequent watering during hot weather.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, with a pH between 5.5-7.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and rocky soils. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged soil and may become susceptible to root rot if grown in overly moist soil.
To provide the best growing conditions, it is recommended to amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.
Cultivation of Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida is a perennial plant that grows well in dry and rocky areas. It is resistant to drought and can tolerate high temperatures. It is easy to grow and take care of, making it an excellent choice for gardeners with little experience.
Watering Needs
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida requires minimal watering once established. Water the plant deeply once every two weeks during the growing season. During the hot months, you can water it more frequently, but make sure the soil drains well.
Fertilization
The plant does not require excessive fertilization. Fertilize the plant once in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause excessive growth and a reduction in flowering.
Pruning
Pruning Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida is not necessary. However, you can remove dead or damaged stems and leaves to promote healthy growth. You can also trim the plant in early spring to control for size and shape.
Propagation of Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida, commonly known as chaparral bindweed, can be propagated through various methods including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and division of roots.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida through seed is a common and effective method. It is best to collect seeds during the fall season. The seeds can be sown in pots or directly in the ground. It is important to ensure that the soil is moist, and the seed is not buried too deep. The ideal germination temperature is 55-70°F. Seedlings should emerge within three to four weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida can be done through stem cuttings. Take a 6-inch stem cutting from a healthy plant during the growing season, typically in summer. Remove all the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the stem cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil and keep it moist. Within a few weeks, roots should begin to develop, and the plant should be ready for transplantation.
Division of Roots
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida can also be propagated through division of roots in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and cut the root ball into several pieces, making sure that each section has healthy leaves and roots. Replant them in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist. This method should be used with mature plants that have been growing for at least a year.
By following these propagation methods, Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida can be easily propagated to maintain and increase its population.
Disease Management
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida is generally a tough plant that is not commonly affected by diseases. In some cases, however, it can become infected by fungal pathogens causing foliar and root diseases. Fusarium wilt, root rot, and powdery mildew are the most common diseases that might attack the plant. To avoid and manage diseases, consider the following measures:
- Plant healthy plants in well-draining soils to reduce the chances of root rot and foliar diseases.
- Avoid overhead irrigation or watering in the evening because the moisture encourages the development of fungal diseases.
- Remove and destroy infected plant parts immediately to prevent the spread of fungal diseases.
- Practice crop rotation and avoid planting in the same spot where Calystegia macrostegia spp. arida or closely related species grew in the previous year.
- Use fungicides in severe cases following the instructions on the label strictly.
Pest Management
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. arida is also not commonly affected by pests but can be infested by a few insects, especially when growing conditions are unfavorable. Some insects that might attack the plant include:
- Spider mites
- Aphids
- Cutworms
To protect the plant from pests, it is recommended to:
- Implement good agricultural practices that promote plant vigor and reduce plant stress.
- Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for light infestations.
- Use chemical pesticides if infestation is severe, under the guidance of a professional.
- Introduce natural predators such as lady beetles that feed on aphids and spider mites.
