Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt
The Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt, also known as the Bingham's bindweed is a perennial flowering plant species belonging to the family Convolvulaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in various parts of the United States, particularly in the West and Pacific Northwest regions.
Common Names
Bingham's bindweed is widely known by several common names such as Hedge bindweed, Wild Morning glory, and Bearbind. Other common names include Bellbine, Lusty Climber, and Devil's Vine, among others.
General Appearance
The plant grows up to 1-2 meters in length and has alternate, simple, arrow-shaped leaves, which are 3-7 cm long. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and white or pinkish in color with five petals. The plant's stem is slender, twining, and can grow up to 2 meters long. The roots are rhizomatous, which allows the plant to produce new stems and spread over the ground.
Uses
Despite its invasive nature and being a nuisance to gardeners, Bingham's bindweed has some medicinal properties. Native Americans have used the plant as a laxative, while other cultures have used it to alleviate pain and swelling. Additionally, the plant's root has been used to treat inflammation, infections, and bites from venomous creatures. The plant's flowers are also used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a range of ailments, including sore throat and constipation.
Growth Conditions for Calystegia sepium ssp. binghamiae
Calystegia sepium ssp. binghamiae, commonly known as Bingham's bindweed, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. The plant is native to North America and can be found in habitats like meadows, forest edges, wetlands, and disturbed areas.
Light Requirements
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade conditions. It can tolerate shade, but it tends to have a weaker growth rate and produces fewer flowers. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in areas with at least six hours of direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Calystegia sepium ssp. binghamiae can adapt to a wide range of temperatures, but it tends to thrive in moderate climates. The ideal temperature for the plant is between 60-75°F (15-23°C). The plant can survive in temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C).
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. However, the ideal soil for Bingham's bindweed is a well-draining, fertile loam soil with a pH of 5-7.5. The plant can tolerate acidic and alkaline soils, but it prefers slightly acidic soil conditions.
The plant also requires moist soil conditions but can tolerate short dry periods. Overwatering the plant can lead to root rot, so it is essential to ensure the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt prefers growing in well-draining soil, which is rich in organic matter. It grows best in areas with partial shade to full sun exposure. The plant is relatively tolerant of different soil pH levels.
Although it is possible to directly sow the seeds into garden soil, it is recommended to start the seeds indoors before the last frost. It takes about two weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings have grown to about two inches in height, they can be transplanted to the garden bed.
Watering Needs
Sufficient watering is important for the growth of Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt. The soil must be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be lethal for the plant. The frequency of watering depends on different factors such as humidity, weather conditions and type of soil.
The best way to determine watering frequency is to check the moisture level of the soil using a moisture meter or by inserting a finger up to two inches into the ground. If the soil feels dry, watering is required, but if it is still moist, it is better to wait or reduce watering time.
Fertilization
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and appearance. Using a balanced fertilizer can provide the necessary nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is recommended to apply the fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season, as well as mid-season and towards the end of the season.
However, over-fertilizing the plant can lead to excessive growth and weak stems, which can result in sprawling plants. In addition, if the soil already contains high levels of nutrients, additional fertilizers are unnecessary. It is crucial to follow the instructions and dosage on the fertilizer package for best results.
Pruning
Regular pruning is essential to keep Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt under control. The ideal time to prune the plant is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Pruning is also effective during the growing season to remove any dead or damaged stems.
To prune, use sharp and clean pruning shears to make clean cuts. Start pruning from the base of the plant and work upwards. It is recommended to remove up to a third of the plant at once to avoid stressing the plant. Pruning also helps to encourage more vigorous growth and stimulates the plant to produce more flowers.
Propagation Methods for Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The plant produces seeds which can be sown in suitable planting medium. However, this method requires a lot of patience as the germination period can be long and germination rates can be low.
Division Propagation
The simplest way to propagate Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt is through division. This method involves digging up the plant and cutting it into smaller sections. The sections should have roots and shoots, and can then be replanted in separate pots or in the ground.
Cuttings Propagation
Softwood cuttings from the plant can be taken during the growing seasons and treated with rooting hormone before planting. With proper care and attention, the cuttings can develop into full-grown plants.
Overall, Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt is relatively easy to propagate. Depending on the method employed, the plant can produce new, viable plants in a reasonable amount of time.
Disease and pest management for Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt
Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt is a hardy plant that is usually not affected by significant damage from pests and diseases. However, they can occasionally be vulnerable to certain pests and diseases. Timely intervention is key to ensuring that these problems do not affect the healthy growth of the plant.
Common pests that affect Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt:
Aphids: These insects primarily affect the leaves of the plant and suck the sap from them, causing them to wilt. Yellowing of leaves is also a common symptom of an aphid infestation. Spraying with a strong stream of water can sometimes knock them off the plant, but neem oil also works well to deter them.
Caterpillars: These are commonly found on plants like Calystegia sepium. They feed on the leaves and can completely defoliate the plant. Mechanical removal of caterpillars by handpicking them is an effective way to manage them. Otherwise, treating with a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray can also help control the caterpillar population.
Spider mites: These are tiny insects that live on the underside of leaves and suck the fluid from Calystegia sepium’s leaves. As the infestation increases, the leaves tend to turn yellow and eventually fall off. Regularly spraying the plant with water can deter spider mites. Insecticidal soap sprays or neem oil is also effective against spider mites.
Common diseases that affect Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt:
Fungal diseases: Fungal infections can be a problem for Calystegia sepium. The most common symptom of a fungal infection is the appearance of brown spots on the leaves. The treatment for fungal diseases is to use a fungicide that is specifically recommended for use on this plant. It is essential to follow the instructions carefully to ensure effective control of the fungal infection.
Bacterial diseases: Soft rot is a common bacterial infection that can cause the stems of Calystegia sepium to rot, resulting in the collapse of the plant. It is nearly impossible to save a plant once it is affected by soft rot. However, the best way to prevent it is to maintain proper plant hygiene, ensuring fungal infections or pest infestations do not lead to a bacterial attack.
By monitoring the plant regularly and acting quickly to address any issues, Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. ssp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt can thrive and produce beautiful lush foliage.
