Origin
Convolvulus ornatus Engl., also known as the ornate bindweed, is a flowering plant native to South Africa.
Common Names
Aside from ornate bindweed, Convolvulus ornatus Engl. goes by several common names including slender morning glory, bush morning glory, and pinky morning glory.
Uses
Convolvulus ornatus Engl. is often used as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful pink flowers and the fact that it is relatively easy to grow. It can serve as a ground cover in a garden or as part of a container garden. Some people also use the plant for medicinal purposes, such as treating headaches, snake bites, and fever.
General Appearance
Convolvulus ornatus Engl. is a low growing, bushy plant that can reach up to 30cm in height. It has thin leaves that are typically green in color. As mentioned, the flowers of Convolvulus ornatus Engl. are pink and can be seen on the plant from late winter to early summer. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and can be up to 3cm in diameter. They are often spotted with darker pink on the inside, adding to their ornate appearance.
Light Requirements
The Convolvulus ornatus plant prefers bright sunlight and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The plant can grow in partial shade but may not thrive as well as it would in full sunlight. If growing the plant indoors, it's essential to place the pot near a window where it can receive adequate sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). However, it can handle temperatures as low as 5°C (41°F) and as high as 38°C (100°F) for a short period. It's important to note that the plant cannot survive in temperatures below freezing point.
Soil Requirements
The Convolvulus ornatus plant needs well-draining soil. Loamy soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost, is preferred. The pH of the soil should range between 5.5 to 7.5. It's essential to avoid soil that retains too much moisture as this can lead to root rot. Adding perlite or coarse sand to the soil can help improve drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Convolvulus ornatus Engl. is an annual flowering plant that is easy to grow. For successful cultivation, it is important to choose a location that receives full sun or partial shade. You can grow it in beds, borders, or in containers. The plant prefers a well-draining soil type that is slightly acidic, so ensure you prepare the soil adequately by adding organic matter, such as compost or aged manure. Sow the seeds in spring after the last frost or in fall, and cover them lightly with soil. Maintain a seed spacing of 12-15 inches apart.
Watering Needs
Convolvulus ornatus Engl. prefers moist but well-drained soil during the growing season. Water the plant regularly once or twice a week, depending on the plant's size and weather conditions. The frequency of watering should reduce significantly as the plant matures. You should avoid watering the plant overhead, as this could cause leaves to become diseased and damaged.
Fertilization
Convolvulus ornatus Engl. responds well to regular fertilization. During the growing season, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks. You can also add a slow-release granular fertilizer once every four to six weeks for better results. Do not apply fertilizer when the soil is dry, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning
Convolvulus ornatus Engl. does not require significant pruning. However, deadhead the plant regularly by cutting off spent blooms as soon as they wilt. This will encourage flowering in subsequent blooms. If the plant becomes leggy and starts to flop, you can cut it back by half without causing significant harm. However, if the plant is diseased or unhealthy, it may be necessary to cut it back severely.
Propagation of Convolvulus ornatus Engl.
Convolvulus ornatus Engl. can be easily propagated by seeds and cuttings. It is essential to note that the plant has a high germination rate, which makes it an ideal choice for propagation.
Propagation by seeds
The easiest and most common method for propagating Convolvulus ornatus Engl. is through seed propagation. Seeds can be obtained from mature fruits of the plant.
It is advisable to collect seeds before they are dispersed naturally. This will give a higher chance of successful germination. Seeds should be collected when they turn brown and dry. Then, they should be stored in a cool, dry place for 2-3 months before planting. This is known as stratification.
The stratified seeds can be sown directly in well-drained soil in the early spring. The seedbed should be kept moist but not wet. After a few weeks, the seeds will germinate, and the seedlings can be transplanted to new locations.
Propagation by cuttings
Convolvulus ornatus Engl. can also be propagated by cuttings taken from healthy, mature plants. Cuttings can be taken in the early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Take cuttings from the stem tip that has a healthy leaf. Cut off excess leaves from the cutting; it should have at least one or two pairs of leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone, and plant them in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist, but not wet, and ensure that the plant receives plenty of light but not direct sunlight.
Within a few weeks, roots will appear, and the cutting will start to grow. After a few months, the cutting will take shape, and you can transplant the new plant to a new location.
Disease Management
Convolvulus ornatus Engl. is susceptible to various types of fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. Powdery mildew is characterized by white powdery patches on the leaves, while leaf spot is visible as brown or black spots on the leaves. Root rot often causes wilting and stunting of the plant. To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain a clean and healthy growing environment. Remove any infected plants, debris, or fallen leaves from the area and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of the disease. You can apply a fungicide to prevent further growth of the fungi, but make sure to follow the instructions and safety precautions provided by the manufacturer.
Pest Management
There are several insect pests that can attack Convolvulus ornatus Engl, including aphids, spider mites, and thrips. Aphids are tiny green insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Spider mites are even smaller and can often go unnoticed until the damage is severe. They cause yellow stippling on the leaves and heavy infestations can cause leaf drop. Thrips feed on the flowers and leaves, causing distorted growth and discoloration. To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect your plants and remove any infected parts. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests. However, be careful not to use too much, as this can harm beneficial insects and pollinators.
