Plant Description
Convolvulus fulcratus (Gray) Greene var. deltoideus (Greene) Jepson is a perennial herb that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. This plant is commonly known as the small-flowered morning glory or dwarf morning glory. It is native to California, specifically the western Mojave Desert region.
General Appearance
The small-flowered morning glory is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 10-15 cm. It has a unique appearance with small, funnel-shaped white to pinkish flowers that bloom from March to August. The flowers have yellow or purple throats and are typically 1-2.5 cm in diameter. The stems are slender and often prostrate, with small, triangular leaves that are 1-2 cm long.
Uses
The small-flowered morning glory is not commonly used for medicinal purposes, but some Native American tribes have used it to treat various ailments such as headaches and toothaches. The plant is also used in landscaping and as a groundcover. It is a popular choice for rock gardens and can be planted in areas with low rainfall as it is drought tolerant.
Cultivation
The small-flowered morning glory thrives in full sun exposure and dry, well-drained soil. It can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings and is relatively easy to care for. However, it is important to keep an eye on it as it has the potential to become invasive in certain areas.
Conclusion
The small-flowered morning glory is a unique and low-maintenance plant that is native to California. Its small size and low-growing habit make it a great choice for rock gardens, borders, and groundcovers. While not widely used for medicinal purposes, it has a long history of use by Native Americans and offers potential health benefits. However, it is important to monitor its growth to prevent it from becoming invasive in certain areas.
Light Requirements
Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus requires full sun exposure to grow properly. It grows best in areas with bright, direct sunlight for at least six hours daily. The plant may struggle to develop flowers if it does not receive enough sunlight.
Temperature Needs
The plant thrives in warm temperatures and is most productive when grown in warm environments. It performs well in temperatures up to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and should not be exposed to freezing temperatures. When the temperature falls below 45 degrees, the plant may cease to thrive.
Soil Conditions
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are not waterlogged. Sandy soils with low fertility are ideal for its growth, and it can be grown in soils with a pH range of 6-8. The plant also benefits from the addition of organic compost and fertilizer to the soil during the growing season.
Cultivation methods
Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus is a hardy and drought-resistant plant that prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. It can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils, as long as the drainage is good. It is recommended to sow the seeds directly into the ground in the fall or early winter.
Watering needs
While Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus is drought-resistant, it still requires occasional watering during its growth period. Watering every two weeks during spring and autumn months and weekly during summer months is sufficient, provided that the soil does not remain too wet after watering. Overwatering may lead to root rot and fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus does not require heavy fertilization, but a light application of low nitrogen fertilizer during its growth period can provide the necessary nutrients. Fertilizer can be applied at the time of planting and every two months thereafter.
Pruning
Pruning is not generally necessary for Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus, but it can be useful to promote bushier growth and to remove dead or diseased foliage. If pruning is necessary, it should be done in the early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus
Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus is a subspecies of the Convolvulus fulcratus (Gray) Greene plant species. This plant is a beautiful addition to any garden, and propagates easily through several methods.
Seed propagation
Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus can be propagated through seed. The seeds of this plant are small, black, and triangular in shape. Sowing the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, after scarification, is recommended. Scarification can be achieved by scarring the surface of each seed with a file or sandpaper, which helps in breaking the seed coat and coaxing the seed to germinate quickly.
Cuttings propagation
Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus can also be propagated easily through cuttings. Cut a stem of about 10-12 cm in length from the main plant, and remove the leaves from the lower half. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant it in moist soilless mix or sand. It will take approximately three to four weeks for roots to develop. Once the roots are well established, transplant the new plant into a garden bed or pot.
Division propagation
Division is a propagation method where the plant is divided into sections, with each section forming a new plant. Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus can be propagated through division when it has become overgrown. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the root ball into a few sections. Ensure that each section has enough roots and foliage to support growth. Replant the sections in the same area, or plant them in new locations in the garden.
Propagation of Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus through these methods is simple and straightforward, and can lead to a garden full of beautiful plants.
Disease Management
The Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus plant is generally tough but can experience different kinds of diseases that can be destructive to its health and growth. One of the most common diseases that affect these plants is root rot. This disease is caused by fungi present in the soil that attacks the plant's roots, causing them to decay. To manage root rot, ensure that your soil has good drainage to prevent water from accumulating on the plant's base. You can also use a fungicide to control and prevent the spread of the fungi in the soil.
Another disease that can affect the plant is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a powdery white substance on the plant's leaves and stems. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant has proper air circulation, maintain moderate humidity levels, and avoid watering the plant from above.
Pest Management
Various pests can attack the Convolvulus fulcratus var. deltoideus plant and cause severe damage. One of the most common pests is the spider mites, which suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to wither and turn yellow. To manage spider mites, you can use an insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also control spider mites by regularly washing and spraying the leaves with water.
The plant can also be affected by aphids, which suck sap from the plant's leaves and excrete sugary honeydew that attracts ants. To manage aphids, you can introduce natural predators such as ladybugs, parasitic wasps, or lacewings. Alternatively, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
Finally, the plant can be affected by thrips, which are small, slender insects that feed on the plant's leaves and flowers, leaving behind silver or bronze-colored scars. To manage thrips, you can use sticky traps or introduce natural predators such as lacewings and predatory mites. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control and prevent thrips infestation.
