Origin
Convolvulus tiliaceus auct. non Willd., commonly known as beach morning glory, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. It is native to coastal areas of the tropical and subtropical regions of the world including the Indian Ocean, western and central Pacific Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea.
Common Names
The plant is known by various common names such as beach morning glory, railroad vine, bayhops, goat's foot, and pohuehue among others.
Uses
Beach morning glory is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, particularly in coastal areas, due to its attractive appearance and ability to withstand saltwater exposure. In some cultures, the plant is used for medicinal purposes. The leaves of the plant are known to have strong antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties and have been used to treat wounds, sore throats, and respiratory ailments.
The roots of the plant are also used for medicinal purposes and have been used to treat dysentery and a range of other ailments. In addition, the plant has culinary uses. The leaves of the plant may be consumed raw or cooked in various dishes.
General Appearance
Convolvulus tiliaceus auct. non Willd. is a vine-like plant that grows up to 30 feet in length. The plant has stems that are woody and flexible. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped with pointed tips. They are arranged alternately on the stem and can grow up to 4 inches in length.
The flowers of the plant are trumpet-shaped and bloom in clusters. They are usually yellow in color with a white or pink center that is surrounded by a deep purple ring. The flowers bloom throughout the year and are followed by fruit capsules that contain two to four seeds.
Light Requirements
Convolvulus tiliaceus is a sun-loving plant that requires full sun to thrive. It grows best in areas with high light intensity, such as open fields, parks, and gardens. In indoor environments, it requires bright artificial light to mimic natural sunlight conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows best in warm environments with high humidity. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C, but optimal growth occurs at temperatures between 20-30°C. Convolvulus tiliaceus can be grown outdoors year-round in tropical and subtropical regions, but in cooler climates, it may need to be grown in a greenhouse to maintain ideal temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Convolvulus tiliaceus prefers well-draining, sandy soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. This plant can grow in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, as long as the soil is not waterlogged or poorly drained. It can tolerate drought conditions and salt spray, making it an ideal plant for coastal gardens.
Cultivation methods
Convolvulus tiliaceus auct. non Willd. is a relatively easy plant to cultivate, and it can be propagated from cuttings or seeds. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and enjoys well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate sandy or clay soil conditions and is suited for coastal regions due to its salt tolerance properties.
The plant can be grown as a shrub or tree, and it is often used to stabilize sand dunes or as a windbreak. It can also be pruned and grown as a container plant. When planting, ensure that the root ball level matches the soil surface level, and water the plant immediately after planting.
Watering needs
Young Convolvulus tiliaceus auct. non Willd. plants require frequent watering until they establish themselves. After this, the plant is relatively drought-tolerant, but it is still recommended to water it regularly during long periods of dry weather. Avoid overwatering the plant, as it is susceptible to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season to maintain healthy growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer to the base of the plant and water it in thoroughly. Avoid overfertilizing the plant, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Regular pruning of Convolvulus tiliaceus auct. non Willd. is not necessary, but it can be shaped into a hedge or tree form by selectively removing branches. Pruning is best done during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to maintain plant health. If the plant becomes too large for the space, it can be pruned back hard in the early spring to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Convolvulus tiliaceus
Convolvulus tiliaceus, commonly known as Beach Morning Glory, is a perennial plant that can be propagated through both sexual and asexual reproduction methods.
Sexual Reproduction
The plant produces seeds that can be collected from mature fruits. The seeds must be sown in a well-draining soil mix, at a depth of ¼ inch. They should be kept moist and placed in a warm environment with temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit until germination occurs, which typically takes about two to three weeks.
Asexual Reproduction
Convolvulus tiliaceus can also be propagated asexually through stem cuttings. A cutting of about 4 to 6 inches long should be taken from the parent plant during the active growing season. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining soil mix and placed in a warm environment with high humidity. It should be kept moist and not allowed to dry out until roots have formed, which usually takes about two to four weeks.
Overall, Convolvulus tiliaceus is a relatively easy plant to propagate and can be multiplied quickly through either sexual or asexual reproduction methods.
Disease and Pest Management of Convolvulus tiliaceus
Convolvulus tiliaceus commonly known as Beach Morning Glory, is a plant that is susceptible to several fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases. Additionally, some pests can harm the plant. It is crucial to identify the diseases and pests and take steps to manage them to prevent damage to the plant.
Common Diseases
Fusarium Wilt: This fungal disease infects the roots of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. The plant becomes stunted and eventually dies. To manage this disease, infected plants should be removed and destroyed. Avoid overwatering the plant, as this can encourage fungal growth.
Crown Gall: This bacterial disease produces galls or tumors at the base of the plant. These growths can interfere with the plant's nutrient and water uptake, leading to stunted growth. To prevent this disease, avoid wounding the plant during pruning or transplanting.
Mosaic Virus: This viral disease causes mosaic patterns of light and dark green on the leaves. The plant may also have stunted growth and reduced yield. There is no cure for this disease. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed, and healthy plants should be regularly inspected for infection.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: These pests feed on the plant's leaves, causing yellowing and stippling. They are tiny and difficult to see. To manage them, use a forceful spray of water to dislodge the mites, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.
Scale Insects: These pests feed on the plant's sap, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. They produce a sticky residue known as honeydew, which attracts ants and can lead to the growth of black sooty mold. To manage them, prune and destroy heavily infested branches, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars: These pests feed on the plant's leaves, causing holes and ragged edges. They can be handpicked and removed or treated with a biological insecticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis.
Regular inspection of Convolvulus tiliaceus is key to the early detection of diseases and pests. Prompt and appropriate management can prevent damage and maintain the health of the plant.
