Origin
Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège, commonly known as cape bindweed, is a perennial plant native to South Africa. It is commonly found growing in sandy and rocky areas and is drought-tolerant.
Common Names
Aside from cape bindweed, Convolvulus calycinus is also known as blue rock bindweed and koffiepypie in South Africa.
Uses
The plant is popular for its ornamental value, with its blue-purple flowers making it a beautiful addition to any garden. It is also known for its medicinal properties, with the roots, stems, and leaves being used to alleviate fever, respiratory problems, and inflammation in traditional South African medicine.
General Appearance
The Convolvulus calycinus is a low-growing shrub that can reach up to 60 cm in height. It has a sprawling and spreading habit, with the stems rooting as they go. The leaves are small, lance-shaped, and grayish-green in color. The funnel-shaped flowers, which bloom from spring to fall, are a striking blue-purple color and are approximately 2.5 cm in diameter. The plant's roots are woody, and its stems are herbaceous, making it ideal for use as ground cover.
Light Requirements
Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège grows best in full sunlight exposure. Therefore, it is essential to cultivate the plant in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. However, the plant can also tolerate partial shade conditions, but it may affect its blooming ability.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives well in warm and mild temperatures. The optimal temperature range for Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège growth lies between 15 - 25°C. Therefore, the plant is best suited for USDA regions 8 to 11, but it can also grow in other zones with careful temperature regulation.
Water Requirements
The plant requires moderate watering levels, and it is essential to water it regularly but only when the top layer of the soil becomes dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is hazardous to the plant. It is vital to maintain well-draining soil that helps regulate water requirements.
Soil Requirements
The plant does well in well-drained soil, and it is necessary to maintain soil pH levels between 6.0 - 7.0. It thrives in sandy or loamy soils with good drainage and aeration. The soil should be moist and well-drained to prevent waterlogging. It would also benefit from adding compost to enhance soil fertility.
Cultivation methods
Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège is relatively easy to cultivate and grow. It's best to plant it in the spring when the soil is warm. Make sure the plant receives full sunlight, and the soil is well-draining. This plant prefers slightly acidic soil.
You can propagate Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège by seed or cuttings. When using seeds, sow them directly into the soil once all frost danger has passed. You can also propagate using tip cuttings from new growth in the summer.
Watering needs
When planting Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège, water it weekly until it becomes established. Afterward, it only needs occasional watering during extended periods of drought. Be careful not to overwater this plant as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège doesn't require a lot of fertilization but will benefit from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Don't fertilize this plant in late fall and winter as it may encourage new growth that is susceptible to frost damage.
Pruning
It's not necessary to prune Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège, but it can help manage the plant's size and shape. You can prune any dead or damaged growth throughout the year. After blooming has stopped, you may cut back up to one-third of the plant's growth to encourage bushier growth and fall blooms.
Propagation methods for Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège
Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seeds
The most common method of propagation for Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège is through seeds. The seeds can be directly sown into the soil after the last frost, or they can be started indoors a few weeks before the last frost. When starting seeds indoors, it is important to keep the soil warm and moist to encourage germination. The seedlings can be transplanted once they have grown a few inches tall.
Division
Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège can also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. The best time to divide Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège is in the early spring before new growth appears. Make sure each division has a healthy root system and replant immediately.
Cuttings
Another method of propagation for Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège is through stem cuttings. This involves taking a stem cutting from a healthy plant and placing it in moist soil or water to encourage root growth. Once the roots have developed, the cutting can be transplanted into the soil. This method is best done in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Disease and Pest Management for Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège
Convolvulus calycinus E.Mey. ex Drège, commonly known as the Cape bindweed, is a stunning perennial plant that is valued for its beautiful, trumpet-shaped flowers. Like all plants, it is prone to a variety of diseases and pests that can negatively affect its growth and overall health. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, along with suggestions on how to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spots: Fungal leaf spots are caused by several fungi species and show as dark spots with defined borders on the leaves. Wet, humid weather can exacerbate the issue. To control the disease, remove the affected leaves and avoid watering the plant from above or in the evening.
Rust: Rust disease is caused by various fungi species and appears as powdery orange spots on the underside of the leaves, which later turn black. To manage rust, prune off the infected foliage, maintain good air circulation, and use a fungicide if necessary.
Root and Crown Rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and is likely to happen in soils with poor drainage. Overly moist soil can increase the prevalence of this disease. To manage root and crown rot, ensure good drainage and proper soil type by planting the plant in a well-drained soil mixture.
Pests
Aphids: Sap-sucking aphids can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, leaf curling, and wilting. To manage aphid infestation, you can use insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or physical removal, or encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests tend to live on the underside of the leaves and spin silken webs. They cause mottled leaves, yellowing, and overall plant decline. To manage spider mites, use a miticide, or physically remove them from the plant.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are voracious eaters and can defoliate the plant. Bt (bacillus thuringiensis) is a natural insecticide that works against many caterpillars. Hand-picking them is also an option for minor infestations.
To prevent disease and pest problems, make sure to plant con volvulus calycinus in ideal growing conditions: full sun, well-drained soil, and proper nutrition. Also, space the plants adequately for enough air circulation to prevent fungal issues. Regularly inspect them for signs of diseases or pests, and take quick action to manage any issues. With good care and management, you can enjoy healthy and beautiful convolvulus calycinus plants!
