Origin and Common Names
Evolvulus alsinoides (L.) L. var. angustifolius Torr., also known as slender dwarf morning-glory, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the southeastern United States and Mexico. It is commonly found growing in coastal sand dunes, beach ridges, and disturbed habitats.
Aside from its scientific name, some of the other names used to refer to this plant include slender dwarf bindweed, slender dwarf morning-glory, slender dwarf evolvulus, and narrow-leaved dwarf morning-glory.
General Appearance
The slender dwarf morning-glory plant features narrow, linear leaves that are about 1-3 cm long and less than 1 mm wide. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem and are commonly bluish-green in color. The stem is slender and can grow up to 60 cm long, and the plant has a shallow root system.
In the summer months, slender dwarf morning-glory produces clusters of small, funnel-shaped flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The flowers are typically white to light blue in color, with a yellow center, and they open in the morning and close by midday.
Uses
Slender dwarf morning-glory has a long history of medicinal use in traditional systems of medicine. It has been used to treat a wide range of health conditions, including fever, dysentery, venereal disease, and skin disorders.
The plant is also used in some cultures as a narcotic and as a remedy for snake bites. Additionally, it is sometimes grown as a ground cover or ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Light Requirements
Evolvulus alsinoides var. angustifolius generally requires full sunlight for optimal growth and development. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in a spot where it can be exposed to direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day. However, it can also tolerate partial shade but may result in limited growth and reduced flower production.
Temperature Requirements
Evolvulus alsinoides var. angustifolius prefers warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 15°C to 30°C. The plant may show poor growth if exposed to temperatures below 10°C, while prolonged exposure to temperatures above 35°C may cause heat stress, resulting in wilting and yellowing of leaves.
Soil Requirements
Evolvulus alsinoides var. angustifolius prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH range should be between 6.0 to 7.5. It can grow in various soil types, including sandy loam and clay loam, but it prefers a soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soil and can be susceptible to root-rot disease if grown in overly moist conditions.
Cultivation methods
Evolvulus alsinoides is a hardy plant that grows well in climates that are warm and humid. It can tolerate a range of soils, but prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil. It requires full sun to partial shade for optimum growth. The plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. It is recommended to plant the seeds or cuttings in spring or early summer.
Watering needs
Evolvulus alsinoides has average water needs and should be watered regularly. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering as the plant can be prone to root rot in overly wet conditions. During periods of extended drought, the plant should be watered deeply at least once a week.
Fertilization
Fertilization can be beneficial to Evolvulus alsinoides, especially if the soil is poor in nutrients. A balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, can be applied every 2-3 months during the growing season. It is important not to over-fertilize as this can burn the plant's roots and cause damage.
Pruning
Evolvulus alsinoides does not require frequent pruning, but can benefit from occasional trimming to encourage bushier growth and maintain its shape. Pruning should be done in early spring before new growth appears. The plant can be pinched back or pruned by up to one-third of its total size. This will also help to remove any dead or damaged branches.
Propagation of Evolvulus alsinoides (L.) L. var. angustifolius Torr.
Evolvulus alsinoides (L.) L. var. angustifolius Torr. can be propagated through various methods including:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Evolvulus alsinoides (L.) L. var. angustifolius Torr. can be collected from mature plants and sown in seed trays filled with a well-draining potting mixture. The seeds should be sown at a shallow depth and lightly covered with soil. The trays should be kept in a warm, bright location and watered regularly. Germination usually occurs within 1-2 weeks.
Cutting propagation
Evolvulus alsinoides (L.) L. var. angustifolius Torr. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants and treated with a rooting hormone. The cuttings should then be planted in a well-draining potting mixture and kept in a warm, bright location. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Roots should develop within several weeks.
Division propagation
Evolvulus alsinoides (L.) L. var. angustifolius Torr. can be propagated through division. This method involves separating the root system of a mature plant into smaller sections, each with some stem and foliage attached. Each section should be planted in a well-draining potting mixture and kept in a warm, bright location. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The new plants should begin to grow within a few weeks.
Disease Management
Evolvulus alsinoides is generally a healthy plant that doesn't suffer from many diseases. However, in some cases, some diseases may affect this plant. The following are some of the common diseases of Evolvulus alsinoides and ways to manage them:
Fungal Diseases
The plant may suffer from fungal diseases such as root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. These diseases are caused by pathogens that thrive in wet and humid conditions.
To manage these diseases, it's important to maintain good sanitation practices. Avoid overwatering the plants and ensure that the soil is well-drained. You can also apply fungicides to the affected plants to prevent the spread of the diseases.
Bacterial Diseases
Evolvulus alsinoides may also suffer from bacterial diseases such as galls, blight, and canker. These diseases are caused by bacteria that thrive in warm and humid conditions.
To manage these diseases, it's important to maintain good sanitation practices. Remove and destroy the infected plants and avoid overcrowding of plants which can lead to the spread of bacteria. You can also apply copper-based fungicides to prevent the spread of the diseases.
Pest Management
Evolvulus alsinoides is generally not heavily attacked by pests. However, the following pests may affect the plant, and it is essential to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They cause distortion on the leaves and stunt the growth of the plant.
To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to spray the affected plants. You can also remove them manually by rubbing them off the plant using a soft cloth
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing of leaves and webs visible on the plants. They thrive in hot, dry weather conditions.
To manage spider mites, spray the affected plants with a stream of water to dislodge them. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are tiny insects that also feed on the sap of the plant. They cause yellowing of leaves and stunt growth.
To manage whiteflies, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to spray the affected plants. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to control their population.
