Origin
Convolvulus capensis Burm.f. var. plicatus (Desr.) Baker, commonly known as Cape bindweed, is a species of morning glory native to South Africa. It is found in the Cape Floristic Region and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers.
Common Names
Cape bindweed is known by various common names including African bindweed, Blue Rock bindweed, Cape morning glory, and Cape wild morning glory.
Uses
Convolvulus capensis Burm.f. var. plicatus has several uses. The plant is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and other decorative landscapes. The flowers of this plant are attractive and bloom in summer, providing a good source of food for bees and other pollinators. In traditional medicine, the plant is used as a poultice to treat boils.
General Appearance
Cape bindweed is an evergreen climber that can reach a height of up to 3 meters. The plant has twining stems that can climb and adhere to other plants or support structures. The leaves of the plant are simple, alternate, ovate to lanceolate in shape, and have a glossy texture. The flowers are funnel-shaped and come in shades of blue, purple, or pink with a white center. The fruit produced by Cape bindweed is a capsule containing black seeds.
Light conditions
Convolvulus capensis Burm.f. var. plicatus (Desr.) Baker is a sun-loving plant that requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight every day. It thrives in full sun conditions but can also tolerate some light shading. In low light conditions, the plant may struggle to thrive and grow well.
Temperature requirements
This plant requires warm temperatures to grow and develop correctly. The ideal temperature for Convolvulus capensis Burm.f. var. plicatus (Desr.) Baker falls between 18°C and 27°C. During colder months, the plant may not grow as well, and it is essential to ensure that the temperature never falls below 14°C. The plant cannot tolerate frost or freezing conditions.
Soil requirements
Convolvulus capensis Burm.f. var. plicatus (Desr.) Baker is a versatile plant that can grow well in varied soil conditions. The plant thrives in well-draining soils that allow excess water to run-off. Soil pH should ideally be between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in nutrients to promote lush green growth and ample flowering. Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer can ensure that the plant gets all the essential nutrients.
Cultivation methods
Convolvulus capensis Burm.f. var. plicatus (Desr.) Baker, also known as Cape bindweed, requires a sunny and warm location to grow. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can adapt to different pH levels in the soil, but a pH range between 5.5-7.5 is ideal. While the plant can grow in different soil types, it thrives best in sandy loam soils that retain moisture.
The plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. Sow the seeds in the spring season, and they will germinate within two weeks. Prepare the garden bed by loosening the soil, removing weeds, and adding organic matter to it. Space the seeds or cuttings at least 30cm apart, and water them regularly until they establish a solid root system.
Watering needs
Cape bindweed requires moderate watering. Water the plant once every two weeks during the growing season. Check the soil moisture level before watering, and avoid overwatering. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. The plant can withstand occasional dry spells, and it's best to reduce watering during winter dormancy.
Fertilization
Cape bindweed responds well to balanced fertilizers. Apply a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy foliage growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliar growth and affect flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is essential in maintaining the plant's shape and preventing straggly growth. Prune the plant once every year during the dormant season to remove dead or damaged branches. Pinching back the tips of the stem during the growing season encourages bushier growth and more flowers.
Propagation of Convolvulus capensis Burm.f. var. plicatus (Desr.) Baker
Convolvulus capensis Burm.f. var. plicatus (Desr.) Baker, commonly known as Cape bindweed, is a popular ornamental plant. Propagation is the process of creating new plants from existing plants. There are two main propagation methods used for C. capensis var. plicatus - seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is an easy and cost-effective method of propagation. It involves collecting seeds from mature plants and growing them in suitable conditions. The best time to collect C. capensis var. plicatus seeds is during the summer months. The seeds should be removed from the seed pods and allowed to dry before sowing. The seeds can be sown directly into soil or started in trays or pots. The soil should be kept moist, but not too wet, until the seedlings emerge.
Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots. C. capensis var. plicatus seedlings are sensitive to transplanting, so care should be taken not to damage their delicate root system. The seedlings should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly until they are strong enough to be planted in their permanent location.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is the process of creating new plants from parts of existing plants. C. capensis var. plicatus can be propagated vegetatively by stem cuttings. Stem cuttings are taken from mature plants during the summer months. The cuttings should be approximately 10cm long and should include at least two leaves. Any flowers or flower buds should be removed from the cutting. The lower leaves should be removed to expose a 2-3cm section of stem.
The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. A rooting hormone can be used to speed up the rooting process. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly. After a few weeks, the cuttings should start to develop roots. Once the roots are well established, the new plants can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Propagation is a rewarding process that can result in many new plants from a single parent plant. With proper care and attention, C. capensis var. plicatus can be propagated successfully using both seed and vegetative methods.
Disease and Pest Management for Convolvulus capensis Burm.f. var. plicatus (Desr.) Baker
Convolvulus capensis Burm.f. var. plicatus (Desr.) Baker is a hardy plant that is easy to grow and care for. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests. As a plant owner, it is essential to be vigilant and take the necessary steps to protect your Convolvulus capensis from pests and diseases to maintain its health and vigor.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Convolvulus capensis is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to keep the plant's foliage dry and avoid overhead watering. Fungal sprays can be used to control powdery mildew effectively.
Another common disease is leaf spot, which appears as brown spots on the leaves of the plant. Leaf spot is caused by a fungal infection and can be managed by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant. Fungal sprays can also be used to control leaf spot effectively.
Common Pests
Convolvulus capensis is also susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that cluster on new growth and young leaves of the plant, causing them to curl and distort. Spider mites are also tiny and appear as tiny red, green, or yellow dots on the leaves. They suck sap from the plant, causing leaves to yellow, become mottled, and eventually drop. Whiteflies are tiny, white, winged insects that usually appear on the underside of leaves. They suck sap from the plant, causing leaves to yellow and drop.
To control these pests, you can use insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils. Another option is to introduce natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings, and praying mantis to the garden. These predators feed on the pests, keeping their population in check.
It is crucial to regularly inspect your Convolvulus capensis for signs of disease or pests. Early detection and management can prevent the spread of disease, minimizing damage and ensuring plant health.
