Origin
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus (Greene) Abrams, commonly known as dwarf morning-glory or western wild morning-glory, is a species of flowering plant native to the western United States, including California, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Idaho, and Arizona. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, sagebrush, and Pinyon-juniper woodlands, at elevations ranging from 300 to 2,300 meters.
Common Names
This plant is commonly referred to as dwarf morning-glory or western wild morning-glory due to its resemblance to the morning-glory plant. It has also been known as bush morning-glory, desert morning-glory, and wild morning-glory.
Uses
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus is primarily used for ornamental purposes, with its attractive lilac-colored flowers and evergreen foliage making it a popular choice for gardeners. Additionally, the plant has some medicinal properties and has been used by Native Americans as a laxative, a poultice for sores and bruises, and as a treatment for coughs and lung ailments.
General Appearance
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus is a woody shrub that can reach heights of up to 1.5 meters. Its leaves are evergreen, small, and narrow with a pointed tip, measuring approximately 1-3 cm in length. The flowers are funnel-shaped and typically lilac-colored, although they can also be pink or white, and are approximately 1-2 cm in diameter. The plant blooms from March to October, and the fruits are small, dry, and rounded capsules that contain black seeds.
Light Requirements:
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus (Greene) Abrams prefers full sunlight exposure for optimal growth and development.
Temperature Requirements:
This plant species prefers warm and dry environments with a temperature range of 68-86°F (20-30°C) for optimal growth. It can withstand some cold temperatures, but prolonged freezing conditions can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements:
The ideal soil for Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus (Greene) Abrams should be well-draining and sandy or gravelly. The plant can tolerate some acidity but prefers slightly alkaline soil with a pH level between 7.2 to 8.5. It can also tolerate saline soils with moderate levels of salt.
It is important to note that this plant has a shallow root system, so it is essential to avoid compacted soil that restricts root growth and water drainage. The plant can benefit from the addition of experienced organic matter to improve soil quality for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus requires well-draining soils for optimal growth. It prefers full sun exposure, with a recommended planting distance of 12 to 24 inches. This plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings, and it's recommended to sow the seeds directly in the garden bed after the last frost date in your area. If starting with stem cuttings, use a rooting hormone before transplanting to the final growing location.
Watering Needs
It's essential to keep the soil moist when Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus is still establishing itself, but once established, it is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. The ideal watering schedule should not exceed once per week, especially during hot and dry climates. Always ensure the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require frequent fertilization. However, you can apply a general-purpose granular fertilizer during the plant's growing season to enhance its growth and development. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when fertilizing. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is not mandatory for Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus, but it can improve its overall health and appearance. The ideal time to prune is after the flowering season. Use a clean, sharp pair of pruning shears to remove any dead or diseased stems. You can also trim any unwanted growth, which encourages fuller and bushier growth. Ensure not to prune more than one-third of the plant's foliage, as this can lead to stress and reduced flowering.
Propagation of Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus (Greene) Abrams
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus (Greene) Abrams, commonly known as western morning glory, is a perennial subshrub that can be propagated using various methods such as seeds, softwood cuttings, and layering. The following are some propagation methods for Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus (Greene) Abrams:
Propagation through Seeds
The most common method of propagating Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus (Greene) Abrams is through seeds. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil in the spring season. It is recommended to scarify the seeds before sowing them to help break the seed coat and enhance germination. Scarification can be done by rubbing the seeds on sandpaper or nicking the seed coat with a sharp blade. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 1/8 inch and kept moist until they germinate, which normally happens within two to three weeks.
Propagation through Softwood Cuttings
Softwood cuttings can also be used to propagate Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus (Greene) Abrams. Softwood cuttings should be taken in the spring season from the upper portion of the stem, which is still green and flexible. The cuttings should be about four inches long, and the leaves on the lower half should be removed. Dip the bottom of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a potting mix, sand, or vermiculite. Keep the cutting moist and in a shaded area until it roots, which typically takes two to three weeks.
Propagation through Layering
Layering is another method of propagating Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus (Greene) Abrams. Layering can be done in the spring or early fall when the plant is actively growing. Choose a long stem and make a small cut in the bark near the bottom of the stem. Bend the stem down and cover the wound with soil or compost. Leave the tip of the stem exposed. The stem will root and produce a new plant. Cut the stem from the parent plant once it has rooted and developed its own root system.
Disease Management
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus (Greene) Abrams is generally susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases that can cause plant damage or even death. To prevent or manage these diseases, the following practices may be implemented:
- Cultural practices: sanitation, such as removing and destroying infected plant debris, can help prevent the spread of diseases. Also, providing proper soil drainage and avoiding irrigation on foliage can minimize the incidence of certain plant diseases.
- Chemical control: use of fungicides and bactericides may help manage plant diseases. However, it is important to read and follow the label instructions, including recommendations on proper application, rate, and timing.
- Biological control: some beneficial microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, may help suppress plant diseases. For example, certain strains of Bacillus subtilis and Trichoderma harzianum have been shown to inhibit fungal pathogens that can cause plant diseases.
- Genetic resistance: planting cultivars or varieties that have been bred for disease resistance or tolerance can reduce the need for chemical control.
Pest Management
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray ssp. fruticetorus (Greene) Abrams is also susceptible to a variety of insect pests, such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can cause damage to the plant foliage or even transmit plant viruses. The following pest management strategies may be employed:
- Cultural practices: regular pruning or trimming of the plant can help remove pest infestations and prevent overcrowding that may attract or harbor pests. Additionally, removing weeds or other host plants in the area may reduce the likelihood of pest attacks.
- Biological control: some beneficial insects or mites, such as lady beetles, lacewings, or predatory mites, may feed on or parasitize pest populations, helping to reduce their numbers.
- Chemical control: use of insecticides or miticides may be necessary to manage pest infestations. However, it is important to read and follow label instructions, including recommendations on proper application, rate, and timing. Additionally, it is important to use selective pesticides that target only the pest in question and do not harm beneficial insects or pollinators.
- Physical control: placing sticky traps or barriers around the plant can help trap or exclude pest populations. Additionally, using high-pressure water sprays or insecticidal soap can physically remove or kill pests on the plant.
