Origin and Common Names
Calystegia occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt ssp. occidentalis var. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt, commonly known as Arroyo Grande morning glory, is a member of the Convolvulaceae family. This plant is native to the western United States, specifically California, and can be found in coastal and inland areas.
Appearance
The Arroyo Grande morning glory is a perennial herb that can grow up to three feet tall and two feet wide. The leaves are dark green, heart-shaped, and covered in fine hairs. The flowers of this plant can be pink or white with a funnel-like shape and are about two inches wide. The plant blooms from June to September.
Uses
The Arroyo Grande morning glory has cultural significance to the Chumash Native American tribes who live in the area where it grows. The plant has been used to make medicine, specifically a decoction from the roots used to treat snakebites, and it has also been used in basket weaving and other crafts. It is not commonly used for edible purposes.
Growth Conditions for Calystegia Occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt Ssp. Occidentalis Var. Tomentella (Greene) Brummitt
Light: The Calystegia Occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt Ssp. Occidentalis Var. Tomentella (Greene) Brummitt thrives in full sunlight. It is a plant that requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow healthy. The plant can survive in partial shade, but it is not recommended to grow the plant in areas with low light intensity.
Temperature: The Calystegia Occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt Ssp. Occidentalis Var. Tomentella (Greene) Brummitt grows well in mild temperatures. The plant prefers temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C). The plant can tolerate higher temperatures of up to 80°F (27°C) but may need extra care to prevent dehydration.
Soil: The Calystegia Occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt Ssp. Occidentalis Var. Tomentella (Greene) Brummitt requires a well-draining, fertile soil. The plant thrives in soils that have a high level of organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.0 to 7.0. It is essential to grow the plant in soil that is not waterlogged as it can cause the plant roots to rot.
Cultivation
Calystegia occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt ssp. occidentalis var. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt is a vine plant that is native to North America, particularly in California. It can be grown in sandy, loamy, and clayey soils that are well-draining. The plant requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It grows well in zones 8 to 11 and can tolerate drought conditions.
Watering Needs
When watering Calystegia occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt ssp. occidentalis var. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt, ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. The plant requires moderate watering during the growing season and minimal watering during winter to prevent waterlogging. It is advised to water the plant after the topsoil has completely dried out.
Fertilization
Calystegia occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt ssp. occidentalis var. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt does not require frequent fertilization. However, to maintain optimal growth, the plant requires occasional application of organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, during the growing season. It is best to avoid over-fertilizing the plant as it may lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning Calystegia occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt ssp. occidentalis var. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt is best done during the winter months or early spring before the onset of the growing season. The plant requires minimal pruning, and damaged, diseased or dead branches should be removed. To control the plant's growth, prune back excessive foliage and limit the plant's size. It is best to avoid pruning the plant during the growing season as it may affect flowering.
Propagation of Calystegia occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt ssp. occidentalis var. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt
Calystegia occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt ssp. occidentalis var. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt can be propagated using various methods. The plant can be propagated through seeds or by vegetative means such as stem cuttings and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is a relatively easy method but requires patience as the seeds can take time to germinate. The seeds can be sown directly in the soil or started indoors. The ideal time to sow the seeds is in fall or early spring. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. The seeds can be covered with a thin layer of soil, and it is important to keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is a faster method compared to seed propagation. The stem cuttings can be taken in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be around 6 inches long and with at least two nodes. The leaves from the lower half of the stem should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist until the cuttings root, which can take around 4-6 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is an excellent method for mature plants that have become too large or have outgrown their space. The plant can be divided in early spring or fall. The plant should be lifted from the ground, and the root ball should be gently separated into smaller divisions. Each division should have healthy roots and shoots. The divisions can be planted in a well-draining soil mix, and the soil should be kept moist until the plants establish.
Disease Management:
Calystegia occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt ssp. occidentalis var. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt is susceptible to some common diseases
Wilt Disease:
The plant may be affected by fungal wilt disease caused by soilborne fungi like Fusarium oxysporum. The symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and eventually death of the plant. To prevent the disease, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Mildew Disease:
The plant can also be affected by mildew diseases caused by fungal pathogens like Erysiphe cichoracearum. The symptoms include the growth of white powder-like substances on the leaves or stems. To manage the disease, spray fungicides and physically remove the affected parts of the plant.
Leaf Spot Disease:
The plant can be affected by leaf spot diseases caused by fungal pathogens like Cercospora. The symptoms include the growth of small, circular dark spots on the leaves. To manage the disease, prune any affected parts of the plant and apply fungicides.
Pest Management:
Calystegia occidentalis (Gray) Brummitt ssp. occidentalis var. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt is also susceptible to some common pests
Spider Mites:
The infestation of spider mites can lead to leaf yellowing and stunted growth of the plant. To manage, physically remove any visible mites, increase the humidity, and apply pesticides.
Caterpillars:
The plant can also be infested by caterpillars, which can cause significant damage. To manage, check frequently for signs of caterpillar and handpick them. Alternatively, apply Bacillus thuringiensis, a natural pesticide that targets caterpillars specifically.
Thrips:
Thrips are insects that feed on plant sap, leaving scars on the leaves. To manage, remove any affected parts of the plant, release predatory insects like Neosiulus cucumeris, or apply insecticidal soap.
