Origin
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis (Jepson) J.T. Howell is native to North America, specifically the western United States and parts of Mexico.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as western morning-glory, white morning-glory, desert morning-glory, and Solanum-leaved bindweed.
Uses
Western morning-glory has a few uses in traditional medicine, such as being used as a mild laxative or as a remedy for coughing and respiratory illnesses. Some Native American tribes also used the plant to relieve headaches and skin irritations. However, it is not recommended to use this plant for self-treatment without consulting a healthcare professional first. Additionally, western morning-glory is sometimes grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive white flowers.
General Appearance
Western morning-glory is a herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 5 feet long. Its stems are slender, often twining around nearby vegetation for support. The leaves are alternate, simple, and generally ovate or heart-shaped. The flowers are funnel-shaped and white, with a yellowish-green center, and can measure up to 2 inches across. The fruits are small capsules that contain several black or brown seeds.
Light Requirements
The Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis requires full sunlight for its growth. The plant thrives in environments with direct and consistent natural light exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis is a plant that is best suited for moderate climates. The optimal temperature range for its growth is between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. The plant's sensitivity to cold weather makes it unsuitable for growth in areas with frost and snow.
Soil Requirements
The Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis prefers well-draining soils that are rich in nutrients. The ideal soil type for this plant is loamy soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant also requires proper aeration and drainage for its healthy growth.
Cultivation
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis (Jepson) J.T. Howell is a sun-loving plant that thrives in well-draining soil. It can be grown in containers or planted directly into the ground. Ideally, the plant should be placed in an area with full sun exposure to allow for optimal growth.
Watering Needs
While Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis (Jepson) J.T. Howell is drought tolerant, regular watering is still essential. The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. During the hot summer months, more frequent watering may be required.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth, Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis (Jepson) J.T. Howell should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. It is important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to excessive foliage growth rather than flower production.
Pruning
Pruning Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis (Jepson) J.T. Howell is recommended to encourage bushier growth and prolong flowering. Deadheading spent flowers can also help to promote additional blooms. Pruning should be done after flowering to prevent cutting off any potential buds.
Propagation of Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis (Jepson) J.T. Howell
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis (Jepson) J.T. Howell, commonly known as Western morning glory, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. The plant is native to California and it grows up to 3 feet tall. Propagation of Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis (Jepson) J.T. Howell can be achieved by seeds or cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis (Jepson) J.T. Howell by seeds is an easy and inexpensive method. The seeds of the plant can be directly sown in the soil during late spring or early summer when the temperature of the soil is above 60°F. The soil should be well-draining and fertile. The seeds should be sown 1/4 inch deep and should be spaced 12-18 inches apart. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 7-14 days. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis (Jepson) J.T. Howell can also be done by cuttings. This method usually yields plants that are identical to the parent plant. The cuttings should be taken from a healthy parent plant during late spring or early summer. The cutting should have at least 2-3 nodes and should be about 4-6 inches long. The lower leaves of the cutting should be removed and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist. The pot should be kept in a warm, bright spot, but not in direct sunlight. The cutting will start to form roots within a few weeks and can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden once it has established roots.
Disease Management
Convolvulus occidentalis Gray var. solanensis (Jepson) J.T. Howell may be susceptible to several diseases, including powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the foliage. Leaf spots are generally caused by fungal or bacterial infections and will appear as small dark or light spots on the leaves. Root rot is caused by fungi that attack the roots, which can lead to wilting and plant death.
To manage powdery mildew, ensure proper spacing between plants for good air circulation, and avoid overhead irrigation. If the disease persists, apply a fungicide labeled for powdery mildew on ornamental plants. For leaf spots, prune and remove infected leaves as soon as possible and avoid overhead watering. Applications of fungicides may also be necessary. In the case of root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. Remove infected plants immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
The plant may also be susceptible to several pests, including spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. Spider mites are tiny, sucking insects that can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Aphids feed on the sap of the plant, causing curling of the leaves, and honeydew deposits. Whiteflies are also sucking insects that cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, as well as honeydew deposits.
To manage spider mites, use a forceful spray of water to dislodge them from the plant or use a miticide labeled for ornamental plants. For aphids and whiteflies, use a forceful spray of water or apply insecticidal soap or oil. Neem oil is another viable option for controlling these pests.
