Overview of Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. The plant is native to Europe and has been introduced to North America as an ornamental plant but has now become naturalized; it is found throughout North America, Asia, and Australia. The plant is commonly known by several names, including hedge bindweed, wild morning glory, and bearbind.
General Appearance of Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt
The plant typically grows up to 2-4ft tall and has trailing or climbing stems that grow up to 6ft long. The leaves are arrow-shaped with a pointed apex, which can grow up to 4in long. The flowers of Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt are white or pink and are trumpet-shaped, which can grow up to 2-2.5in long. The plant blooms from June to September, and the fruit is a capsule that contains four black seeds.
Uses of Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt has been used traditionally as a medicinal plant for various ailments, including digestive and respiratory issues. The plant's leaves, flowers, and roots were historically used in traditional Chinese medicine. The plant contains various alkaloids, including convolvuline and resin, which are known to have diuretic and laxative properties. However, it is recommended to use this plant only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.
Additionally, the plant's roots and young shoots are edible and were consumed by the Native Americans. The shoots of the plant can be consumed raw or cooked, and the roots can be boiled or roasted and used as a coffee substitute.
In modern times, however, the plant is considered an invasive species in many regions of the world, and people are advised against growing it in their gardens or buying it as an ornamental plant. The plant's vigorous growth can easily overtake other plants and create dense thickets, which could lead to the displacement of native vegetation.
Growth Conditions for Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt
Light: This plant species prefers full or partial sunlight exposure. It can tolerate some shade but not for extended periods, and it may lead to a reduction in flowering.
Temperature: Calystegia sepium ssp. angulata grows in a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers a cool to a moderate climate. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 10°C and 25°C. Temperatures below 5°C and above 35°C can inhibit growth and cause plant damage.
Soil: This plant species adapts to a diverse range of soil conditions. However, it prefers neutral to alkaline soils that are well-drained, moist, and rich in organic matter. It can grow in saline soils as well but not in waterlogged soil. The ideal pH range for the plant species is between 6.5 and 8.5.
Water: Calystegia sepium ssp. angulata has high water requirements for optimal growth and development. The soil should be kept moist, and it should not dry out between watering. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot and fungal diseases. During drought conditions, the plant will wilt, but it can recover once watered.
Nutrients: The plant has moderate nutrient requirements, and it responds well to organic fertilizers. Phosphorus and potassium are essential for root development, bud formation, and flower production. Nitrogen is also essential for growth, but an excessive amount can lead to vegetative growth at the expense of flowers.
Cultivation methods
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt is a hardy plant species that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. The plant can be grown from seed or propagated through root cuttings. Planting should be done in well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. The plant can be grown in full sun or partial shade.Watering needs
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt requires regular watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to water the plants deeply and infrequently rather than shallow and frequently. This helps the roots to grow deeper into the soil where they can access more water and nutrients.Fertilization
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer should be used, with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, usually in the spring and summer. It is important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to poor plant growth and reduced flower production.Pruning
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt does not require regular pruning, but it can be beneficial to promote healthy growth. Pruning can include deadheading, removing diseased or damaged stems, and cutting back overgrown stems. Deadheading encourages the plant to produce more flowers, while cutting back overgrown stems helps to maintain the shape and size of the plant. It is important to use sterilized pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease.Propagation of Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt, commonly known as Hedge bindweed, is typically propagated through cuttings, division, or seeds. The plant prefers well-draining soils and moist conditions.
Cuttings
Cuttings of Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt should be taken from new growth, preferably in spring or summer. The cuttings should be around 4-6 inches in length and should be taken from healthy plants. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and covered with a clear plastic bag to preserve humidity. The cuttings should root within a few weeks and can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden once the roots are well-developed.
Division
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt can be divided in early spring or fall. Dig up the mother plant and divide it into smaller sections, making sure each section has a good number of roots and shoots. Transplant each section in a well-draining garden bed or a container filled with potting mix. Water the newly transplanted plants well and keep them in a partially shaded area until they become established.
Seeds
Seeds of Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt can be harvested in the fall and sown directly in the garden bed in the spring. Seeds should be planted around 1/4 inch deep in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge, which usually takes around 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to around 2-3 inches tall, thin them out, leaving the strongest plants to mature.
Disease Management
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt is susceptible to various diseases, including:
- Powdery mildew: This disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It can cause leaves to yellow and drop prematurely. Powdery mildew is typically caused by fungal spores and can be managed by applying a fungicide to affected plants.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot causes small, circular spots to appear on the leaves. Over time, these spots may expand and cause leaves to yellow and drop. To manage leaf spot, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can also be helpful in controlling the spread of the disease.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes the leaves to develop orange or brown spots. It can be controlled by regular pruning and removing infected plant parts. Fungicides can also be used to manage rust.
Pest Management
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. angulata Brummitt can also be affected by certain pests, including:
- Spider mites: Spider mites are small pests that feed on the plant's leaves. They may cause the leaves to appear speckled or discolored. To manage spider mites, the leaves should be regularly washed with water or a soap solution. Additionally, the use of insecticidal sprays may be effective.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause distorted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, the use of natural predators like ladybugs can be effective. Insecticidal soaps can also be used to control aphid populations.
- Cutworms: Cutworms are larvae that feed on the stem of young plants, often causing them to break and die. To manage cutworms, the use of barrier methods like collars can be effective. Additionally, the use of insecticides may help control cutworm populations.
