Origin
Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus (Hallier f.) A.Meeuse, commonly known as Arrowleaf Bindweed or Sagittate Bindweed, is a plant species belonging to the family Convolvulaceae. This species is native to South Africa and is found in regions like Northern Cape, Western Cape, and Eastern Cape.
Common Names
The plant Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus is commonly known as Arrowleaf Bindweed or Sagittate Bindweed due to the arrow-shaped leaves it produces. In South Africa, it is also known as "pypie" or "pietpienkraal."
Uses
Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus has a few medicinal properties and is known in traditional medicine for its therapeutic effect on snake bites. The plant's leaves are pounded, placed on the bite, and then covered. It has been found to be effective in reducing the swelling and pain associated with the bite. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens as it produces blue, funnel-shaped flowers.
General Appearance
Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus is a perennial herb that grows up to 50 cm tall. The plant produces arrow-shaped leaves that are a greyish-green color. The leaves are typically 1 cm wide and can be up to 7.5 cm long. The plant produces blue, funnel-shaped flowers that have a diameter of approximately 1-2 cm. The plant is a scrambler, meaning it grows over other plants, and often climbs over rocks and walls.
Growth Conditions for Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus (Hallier f.) A.Meeuse
Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus (Hallier f.) A.Meeuse, known commonly as arrowleaf bindweed, is a herbaceous plant that is widely distributed throughout South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. The plant typically grows in rocky places and open grasslands and can grow up to 50 cm in height. The following are the most optimal growth conditions for this plant:
Light Requirements
Arrowleaf bindweed requires full sun exposure to grow and thrive. Partial shade may be tolerated, but the plant tends to grow spindly and produce fewer flowers if it does not receive adequate sunshine.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is well adapted to warm and dry climates. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is known to withstand extreme heat and drought conditions. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 15°C and 30°C.
Soil Requirements
Arrowleaf bindweed prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 6.0 – 7.5). The plant can grow in various soils, including sandy, loamy, or rocky soils, and is often found growing on rocky outcrops, gravelly slopes, and hillsides. It also thrives in soils that are low in nutrients and organic matter.
Cultivation
Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus (Hallier f.) A.Meeuse, commonly referred to as arrowleaf bindweed, is a hardy plant that can be easily cultivated in most well-draining soils. The plant prefers a sunny or partially shaded location and can grow in areas with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 40°C.
Propagation can be done through seeds that should be sown in spring or autumn, or from cuttings taken in summer.
Watering Needs
Arrowleaf bindweed requires moderate watering, and the plant should be allowed to dry out between waterings. It is essential to avoid overwatering the plant as it can cause root rot. The watering frequency should be adjusted according to weather conditions and the soil type.
Fertilization
The plant requires minimal fertilization. Applying a balanced fertilizer once every two months can be beneficial for the plant's growth. Overfertilizing should be avoided as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and hinder flowering.
Pruning
Arrowleaf bindweed should be pruned after flowering to promote new growth and maintain the plant's desired shape. The plant can be cut back to its basal foliage, and any weak or damaged stems should be removed. Pruning can also prevent the plant from becoming invasive.
Propagation of Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus
Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus is a herbaceous plant species that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. The plant is native to Southern Africa and can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the easiest and most commonly used method. Collect the seeds from a healthy plant once they ripen and spread them on a seedling tray filled with well-draining soil. Lightly cover the seeds with soil, water them, and place the tray in a bright location. The seedlings should emerge in 10-14 days after sowing.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings of stem from the parent plant, making sure that each cutting has a stem and leaves. Dip the cuttings into rooting hormone powder and plant them in a substrate mix of sand and peat in a pot. Water the cutting and place the pot in a bright, shaded location. In about 2-3 weeks, the cuttings should root, and new growth should be visible.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is a method used to propagate plants with a rhizome. Carefully dig up the rhizomes from the parent plant and divide them into sections, ensuring that each section has roots and leaves. Plant each section in well-draining soil in a separate container and water them well. Place the containers in a bright, shaded location, and the plant will start to grow new leaves and roots.
Propagation of Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus is relatively straightforward, and with proper care, the plant can be grown in a variety of settings.
Disease Management
The Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus (Hallier f.) A.Meeuse plant may be susceptible to several diseases that affect its growth and development. To keep the plant healthy, it is essential to learn and adopt the right techniques to manage these diseases. Here are common plant diseases that might affect the plant.
Anthracnose
This fungal disease can cause yellowing and wilting of the plant leaves. It spreads through spores that move in water and may survive on plant debris. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy the infected plant debris immediately, and ensure proper drainage and watering. Applying fungicides may help in severe cases.
Fusarium Wilt
This soil-borne fungal disease thrives in high moisture content and warm temperatures. It causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves and stem rot. To manage fusarium wilt, remove and destroy infected plants and use a three-year crop rotation system for replanting. Use resistant plants and control water application to reduce soil moisture levels.
Pest Management
The Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus (Hallier f.) A.Meeuse plant may also be vulnerable to pests that feed on the leaves, stems, and other plant parts. Here are common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Aphids
These soft-bodied insects appear in clusters on the plant and feed on its sap, causing yellowing and distortion of the leaves. To control aphids, remove infected plant parts and spray with insecticidal soap or Neem oil.
Spider mites
These tiny pests also feed on the plant sap, causing mottled leaves, webbing, and twisting. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. To control spider mites, increase the plant's humidity, remove infected plant parts, and apply insecticidal soap or Neem oil. You may also use predatory mites, which feed on the spider mites.
Managing diseases and pests for the Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. var. hirtellus (Hallier f.) A.Meeuse plant requires holding an eye on its growth and overall condition. Proper sanitation practices, timely management techniques, and preventative measures can help you maintain healthy plants.
