Origin
Calystegia macrostegia (Greene) Brummitt ssp. cyclostegia (House) Brummitt, also known as the island morning glory, is a plant species that is native to California and Baja California, Mexico.
Common Names
Aside from island morning glory, Calystegia macrostegia is also commonly referred to as chaparral morning glory, hedge morning glory, or Great-flowered morning glory.
Uses
Calystegia macrostegia has a long history of medicinal use among Native American tribes in California. The plant was used to treat various ailments such as coughs, colds, and skin rashes. The roots of the plant were also boiled and consumed as a treatment for stomach problems such as indigestion, constipation, and diarrhea.
In terms of practical uses, the plant is often used for erosion control in areas prone to soil erosion. It is also used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive and showy flowers.
General Appearance
Calystegia macrostegia is a woody vine that can grow up to 20 feet in length. The vine's leaf blades are ovate to arrowhead-shaped and measure up to 7 cm long. The flowers, which bloom from June to October, are typically white or pink and can grow up to 7 cm in diameter. The plant's fruit is a capsule, which contains several seeds.
The plant is found in a variety of habitats, including coastal bluffs, chaparral, and oak woodlands. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate full sun to light shade.
Light Requirements
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. cyclostegia grows best in full sun to partial shade, receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In bright, filtered light, these plants will have a denser foliage and potentially better bloom production, but may also be more susceptible to pest and disease problems.
Temperature Requirements
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. cyclostegia is native to coastal areas of California and is adapted to Mediterranean climates. They prefer mild temperatures between 60-75°F (15.6-23.9°C) and can tolerate occasional frosts and heatwaves. However, extended periods of high humidity and temperatures above 90°F (32.2°C) can cause stress and foliar damage.
Soil Requirements
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. cyclostegia prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. They can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy or gravelly soils, as long as they have good drainage. These plants are adapted to dry summers and wet winters, therefore they prefer soils that are evenly moist but not overly saturated.
Cultivation Methods
Calystegia macrostegia (Greene) Brummitt ssp. cyclostegia (House) Brummitt, commonly known as the island morning glory, is a perennial plant that typically grows in coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. The plant is drought-tolerant and prefers dry soil. However, occasional watering during the dry season can help the plant thrive.
Watering Needs
The island morning glory is a drought-tolerant plant, but it still requires a moderate amount of moisture to grow. It is essential to avoid watering the plant too much, as excessive moisture can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. Generally, the plant requires weekly watering during the growing season and less frequent watering during the dormant season. During extended periods of hot and dry weather, the plant may require additional watering to prevent the soil from drying out completely.
Fertilization
Calystegia macrostegia (Greene) Brummitt ssp. cyclostegia (House) Brummitt is not known to be heavy feeders, so it generally does not require fertilization. However, if you notice that your plant is not growing or flowering well, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil. The plant responds well to low-nitrogen fertilizers, such as those meant for cacti and succulents.
Pruning
The island morning glory plant benefits from occasional pruning to keep it looking tidy and promote better growth. You should prune the plant after the flowering season to encourage new growth. Remove any dead or diseased branches and cut back any overgrown or leggy stems. You can also prune the plant to maintain its desired shape or size. However, avoid pruning too much as it can cause stress to the plant and reduce its overall health.
Propagation methods for Calystegia macrostegia (Greene) Brummitt ssp. cyclostegia (House) Brummitt
Calystegia macrostegia (Greene) Brummitt ssp. cyclostegia (House) Brummitt, also known as island false bindweed, is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and delicate flowers. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and root division.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds of Calystegia macrostegia can be gathered from the plant during the fall season. Before planting, the seeds need to be scarified to remove the hard outer layer, allowing for faster germination. Once scarified, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix, and keep them at a consistent temperature of 70-75°F until germination occurs, which usually takes around 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are another effective way to propagate Calystegia macrostegia. The best time to take stem cuttings is during the summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem that has at least two nodes, and cut it just below the bottom node. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem, keeping only the top leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant the stem in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings moist and at a consistent temperature of 70-75°F until the roots develop, which usually takes around 4-6 weeks.
Propagation by root division
Root division is another method of propagating Calystegia macrostegia. This method is best done during the fall or early spring when the plant is dormant. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the rhizomes, making sure each division has healthy roots and shoots. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil, water thoroughly, and keep them at a consistent temperature of 70-75°F until new growth appears.
Regardless of the method used, it is essential to keep the plant well-watered during the establishment phase. Once established, Calystegia macrostegia is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in various conditions, making it a perfect addition to any garden or landscape setting.
Disease and Pest Management for Calystegia macrostegia (Greene) Brummitt ssp. cyclostegia (House) Brummitt
Calystegia macrostegia (Greene) Brummitt ssp. cyclostegia (House) Brummitt is a hardy plant, but it is not impervious to diseases and pests. Here are some common problems that may afflict this plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a whitish-gray powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. It is usually caused by overcrowding or poor air circulation. To manage powdery mildew, remove affected parts of the plant and improve air circulation by thinning out the foliage. You can also use a fungicide, but make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves of the plant. It is usually caused by waterlogged soil or overhead watering. To manage leaf spot, remove affected parts of the plant, improve drainage, and avoid overhead watering. You can also use a fungicide, but make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap out of leaves. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves and they may cause yellowing or stippling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, you can use a strong jet of water to spray them off the plant or use an insecticidal soap or oil.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails are common garden pests that can cause damage to the leaves and flowers of the plant. They usually come out at night and leave a silvery slime trail. To manage slugs and snails, you can use bait stations or traps or handpick them off the plants.
By being vigilant and taking care of your plants, you can prevent or manage most diseases and pests affecting Calystegia macrostegia (Greene) Brummitt ssp. cyclostegia (House) Brummitt. In addition, always remember to follow instructions carefully when using any chemical treatment.
