Overview:
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. appalachiana Brummitt is a species of plant that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. It is a perennial vine known by several common names such as hedge bindweed, wild morning glory, and Rutland beauty. This plant is native to North America and is commonly found in meadows, fields, and disturbed habitats. It is known for its attractive flowers and vining growth habit, making it a popular ornamental plant in gardens.
Description:
The hedge bindweed has a twining stem that can grow up to 2 meters in length. The leaves are arrow-shaped, smooth, and alternate along the stem. The flowers are showy and large, with a funnel-shaped corolla that is white to pink in color, measuring 3-5 cm in diameter. The flowers bloom during the summer months and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The fruit is a capsule that contains four seeds.
Uses:
The hedge bindweed has some traditional medicinal uses. The roots and leaves contain chemicals that have been used to treat gastrointestinal disorders and skin conditions. The plant has also been used as a remedy for snakebites and as an expectorant. However, caution must be taken when using it for medicinal purposes as some parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
As an ornamental plant, the hedge bindweed can be used to cover trellises, walls, and fences due to its vining habit. It is also a great addition to gardens and landscapes, providing attractive flowers and serving as a host for pollinators.
Light Requirements
Calystegia sepium ssp. appalachiana requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Too much shade can limit flowering, while too much sun can scorch the leaves. Therefore, it is recommended to plant in an area where it can receive 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Calystegia sepium ssp. appalachiana is native to the mountains of eastern North America. It can tolerate a range of temperatures, from cool to warm, but prefers cooler temperatures. During the growing season, the ideal temperature range is between 60-75 °F (15.6-23.9 °C). During the winter months, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20-30 °F (-6.7- -1.1 °C).
Soil Requirements
Calystegia sepium ssp. appalachiana prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range is between 5.5-7.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay, as long as the soil is not constantly waterlogged. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist, not allowing it to dry out between watering. Adding a layer of mulch around the plant can help to retain moisture in the soil.
Cultivation Methods
Calystegia sepium ssp. appalachiana Brummitt is a perennial plant and can be propagated either by seed or through division. The ideal time for planting seedlings is in the spring or fall when the soil temperature is between 60-70°F. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in a variety of soil types, ranging from sandy to clay soils. It is important to ensure adequate drainage as the plant does not tolerate waterlogged soils.
Watering Needs
The Calystegia sepium ssp. appalachiana Brummitt plant prefers moist soil and requires regular watering during the growing season. However, it is important to avoid overwatering as the plant can develop root rot in waterlogged soils. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During periods of drought, deep watering can be beneficial to the plant.
Fertilization
Calystegia sepium ssp. appalachiana Brummitt does not require heavy fertilization. In fact, over-fertilization can lead to an excessive growth of foliage at the expense of flowers. It is recommended to add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and early summer, followed by a light application of compost or organic fertilizer during the mid-summer months.
Pruning
Calystegia sepium ssp. appalachiana Brummitt does not require regular pruning, but occasional maintenance can be beneficial. The best time to prune the plant is in the early spring before new growth appears. Cut back any dead or damaged branches and trim back any overgrowth to maintain a desired shape. During the growing season, remove any spent or faded flowers to promote continued blooming and to prevent the plant from self-seeding.
Propagation of Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. appalachiana Brummitt
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. appalachiana Brummitt can be propagated by vegetative methods such as rhizomes, stolons, and stem cuttings. Sexual propagation through seeds is also possible.
Vegetative Propagation
Rhizomes and stolons are horizontal, underground stems that produce roots and shoots at its nodes. These structures allow the plant to spread quickly and form dense patches. Propagation by rhizomes and stolons is straightforward, as portions of these structures can be cut and planted in moist soil. The best time to propagate using rhizomes is during the plant's dormant period in late fall or early spring. For stolons, portions can be cut during the growing season, preferably in the early summer months. A well-draining, fertile, and moist soil mixture is vital to the success of the propagation.
Stem cuttings are another vegetative propagation method. These should be taken in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. A length of stem with at least one node can be removed from the parent plant and planted in a rooting medium such as sand or vermiculite. The container should be kept in a warm, bright area with high humidity to facilitate the growth of roots. In about two to three weeks, the cutting should take root and can be transplanted.
Propagation through Seeds
The plants produce seeds that can be propagated for cultivation. However, the seed germination rate is low, and the plant can take up to two years to reach maturity. The seeds should be collected in the fall and planted in the spring. The seeds require a cold-stratification period of up to two months, which can be achieved naturally outdoors or artificially in a refrigerator. Germination takes place in the spring, and the young plants should be kept in a warm, bright area with well-draining soil. In about two months, the plants can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Disease Management
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. appalachiana Brummitt is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many diseases. However, it is susceptible to some foliar diseases when growing in crowded and humid environments. The following are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant, and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot
This is a fungal disease that presents with round, brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and dispose of them away from the plant. Practicing crop rotation can also help in reducing the chances of the disease affecting the plant in the future.
Anthracnose
This is a fungal disease that begins with yellow spots on the leaves that develop into brown or black necrotic lesions. Anthracnose often affects plants in humid conditions. To manage this disease, practice proper spacing between the plants to allow for air circulation. Also, avoid overhead watering and weed management to reduce the likelihood of spreading the disease.
Pest Management
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. appalachiana Brummitt is not highly susceptible to pests. However, it can still be attacked by some pests that can cause substantial damage to the plant. Below are some of the common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck plant sap, causing leaves to yellow and become distorted. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the plant. Applying insecticidal soap can also be effective in killing spider mites.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are known to feed on the leaves of Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. appalachiana Brummitt. They can cause substantial damage to the plant if their numbers are not controlled. To manage caterpillars, pick them off the plant by hand and dispose of them away from the plant. Applying Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can also be effective in managing caterpillars.
