Origin and Common Names
Calystegia macrostegia (Greene) Brummitt ssp. intermedia (Abrams) Brummitt, commonly known as coast morning glory, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family of Convolvulaceae. The native range of this plant species is the coastal areas of California and Mexico.General Appearance
The coast morning glory is a sprawling and trailing plant, which can grow up to 7 feet long. The leaves of this plant are large, arrow-shaped, up to 4 inches long, and are hairy on both sides. The flowers are trumpet-shaped, approximately 2 inches in diameter, and are usually white or pink in color. The fruit of this plant is a capsule that contains four seeds.Uses
The coast morning glory has several uses. The plant is an important nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other insects. The roots of this plant have been used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, such as treating coughs, sore throats, and skin irritations. The leaves and stems of coast morning glory are edible and have been used in traditional Mexican cuisine. Additionally, this plant is popular for landscaping and erosion control due to its ability to rapidly spread and cover large areas.Light Requirements
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. intermedia typically grows in areas with full sun exposure, but can also thrive in partial shade. This sub-species typically grows along the coast, where it receives ample sunlight but is protected from intense heat by the ocean's cooling effects.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Calystegia macrostegia ssp. intermedia is between 60-75°F (15-24°C). This sub-species is adapted to coastal regions, where temperatures are generally mild year-round. It can tolerate occasional heatwaves but may struggle in areas with consistent high temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. intermedia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. This sub-species is adapted to areas with low nutrient availability, but will benefit from the addition of fertilizer or compost.
Cultivation Methods
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. intermedia is a creeping plant that prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow in various soil types, but it thrives best in well-drained soil. You can propagate this plant from seeds or cuttings. During planting, ensure that you space the plants about 1-2 feet apart to allow for ample growth.
Watering Needs
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. intermedia requires moderate watering, especially during the growth phase. However, you should avoid overwatering as it may lead to root rot. You should check the soil's moisture content before watering and only water when the top inch of soil is dry. Additionally, you should avoid watering the plant from above, as this may encourage fungal growth.
Fertilization
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. intermedia requires minimal fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year, preferably during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Pruning
Pruning is vital in controlling the spread of Calystegia macrostegia ssp. intermedia, which tends to be invasive. You should remove any dead or damaged branches as soon as possible. You should also prune the plant regularly to control its growth and shape it to your desired form.
Propagation of Calystegia macrostegia Brummitt ssp. intermedia Brummitt
Calystegia macrostegia Brummitt ssp. intermedia Brummitt, commonly known as chaparral morning glory, is a perennial vine native to California. It is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in full sun and well-draining soils. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods.
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Calystegia macrostegia Brummitt ssp. intermedia Brummitt is through seed propagation. The seeds of this plant are readily available in the market. Sow the seeds in a pot filled with well-draining soil mix, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. The seeds will germinate in 2-3 weeks. Transplant the seedlings to individual containers once they develop two sets of leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is best done in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Take stem cuttings from a healthy vine, around 3-4 inches in length, and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create humidity and place it in a bright, indirect light. The cutting will develop roots in 3-4 weeks.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Calystegia macrostegia Brummitt ssp. intermedia Brummitt. To do this, dig up the plant and gently separate the root ball into several smaller sections. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Keep the plant in a partially shaded area until it has established itself.
Disease Management
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. intermedia is susceptible to different types of diseases, including root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Root rot is caused by fungi in poorly drained soil, leading to root decay and ultimately death of the plant. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers, leading to distorted growth and reduced vigor. Leaf spot is a bacterial disease that causes foliage to yellow and develop black or brown spots, eventually leading to defoliation.
To manage root rot, avoid overwatering the plant, and ensure good drainage. Remove and dispose of infected plant parts, and avoid overcrowding plants to prevent the spread of the disease. To manage powdery mildew, increase air circulation around the plant by spacing them out and trimming nearby shrubs or trees. Avoid wounding the plant during pruning, and apply fungicides at the first sign of the disease. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected foliage, avoid watering the plants from above, and apply copper or sulfur-based fungicides.
Pest Management
Calystegia macrostegia ssp. intermedia is also susceptible to different types of pests, including spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's leaves, causing yellowing and mottling. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing distorted leaves and stunted growth. Mealybugs are also sap-sucking insects that produce a white, waxy coating on the plant.
To manage spider mites, wash the leaves with a strong jet of water to dislodge them or use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. To manage aphids, wash the leaves with a strong jet of water, attract natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil. To manage mealybugs, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap.
Always check the plant regularly for pests and diseases, and take appropriate measures to manage them promptly. A healthy plant is less likely to be affected by pests and diseases, so ensure proper watering, fertilization, and sunlight to keep the plant healthy and strong.
