Origin
Evolvulus sericeus Sw. var. glaberrimus B.L. Robins. is a species of morning glory plant that belongs to Convolvulaceae family. It is native to the United States and can be found growing in sandy and rocky areas in the states of Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as “Sericeus Dwarf Morning Glory” or “Smooth Evolvulus.”
Uses
Evolvulus sericeus Sw. var. glaberrimus B.L. Robins. is often cultivated for its ornamental purposes. With its blue-mauve flowers and the ability to grow in hot climatic regions, it is a popular choice for landscaping in Texas. The plant is drought tolerant and requires minimal maintenance, making it an ideal choice for people who want to add color to their garden without putting in much effort.
General Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 10 inches tall and 30 inches wide. It has a trailing habit and grows in clumps. The leaves are small, about half an inch long and a quarter-inch wide with a silvery green color and texture due to the plant's silvery hairs. The flowers have five petals and a funnel-shaped tube that flares open to about an inch wide. They are blue-mauve in color and bloom in the summer months.
Light Requirements
Evolvulus sericeus Sw. var. glaberrimus B.L. Robins. is a sun-loving plant and requires full sunlight for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade, but reduced light intensity can negatively affect its growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Optimal temperatures for the growth of Evolvulus sericeus Sw. var. glaberrimus B.L. Robins. range from 20°C to 30°C. It can tolerate temperature fluctuations, but extreme heat or cold temperatures can cause stress and damage the plant's growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5 is suitable for this plant. It can tolerate a wide range of soils, but waterlogged soils and high salinity can be detrimental to growth.
Cultivation Methods
Evolvulus sericeus Sw. var. glaberrimus B.L. Robins. prefers full sunlight for its growth. You can grow this plant in containers or directly in the soil.
The soil used for cultivating this plant should be well-draining and loose to allow the roots to expand and breathe. The plant has a delicate root system that requires gentle care during planting and transplanting.
The ideal temperature range for the growth of this plant is between 60-80°F.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is essential to maintain the health and longevity of the Evolvulus sericeus Sw. var. glaberrimus B.L. Robins. Water the plant regularly, providing enough for the soil to remain moist but not waterlogged.
During the summer season, the plant needs frequent watering, while in the winter, the watering frequency decreases. Ensure the plant receives enough water during periods of drought and high temperatures.
Fertilization
Fertilization can boost the growth of Evolvulus sericeus Sw. var. glaberrimus B.L. Robins. and increase its resistance to pests and diseases.
Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant once every two weeks during the growing season.
Avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil and damage the plant roots.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of the plant. It is recommended to prune the plant during the early spring season.
Trim back the overgrown and damaged stems or branches. Remove the old flowers to encourage new growth and more blooming.
Pruning also helps in improving the air circulation around the plant, reducing the risk of fungal and bacterial diseases. Use sharp and sterilized pruning tools to prevent injury to the plant.
Propagation of Evolvulus sericeus Sw. var. glaberrimus B.L. Robins.
The propagation of Evolvulus sericeus Sw. var. glaberrimus B.L. Robins. can be carried out through both sexual and asexual means.
Sexual propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be collected and sown directly into well-prepared soil in the garden or in seedling trays. It is important to ensure appropriate seedling soil and ambient temperature. A germination temperature between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended, and seedlings should receive ample but not excessive sunlight. When grown from seed, it may take several months to years for the plant to reach maturity.
Asexual propagation
Asexual or vegetative propagation can be done through stem cuttings and layering. For stem cuttings, a cutting is taken from the parent plant and stripped of its lower leaves. The cutting is then planted in soil and kept in a humid environment. After a few weeks, roots will develop and new growth will start to appear. Layering, on the other hand, involves bending a lower branch of the parent plant over until it touches the ground. The branch is then covered with soil and allowed to develop roots. When roots have developed, the branch can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted.
Disease Management
Evolvulus sericeus Sw. var. glaberrimus B.L. Robins. is relatively disease-resistant, but it is still susceptible to some common plant diseases. Here are the common diseases that might affect the plant:
1. Root Rot: Although Evolvulus sericeus is resistant to root rot, it can still be affected by it. If the soil is too damp, the roots can rot and cause the plant to wilt and die. To avoid root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and not too wet. Water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry.
2. Leaf Spot: Evolvulus sericeus is also susceptible to leaf spot, a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves. To prevent leaf spot, avoid getting the foliage wet when you water the plant, and make sure the air around the plant is always flowing.
3. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects many plants, including Evolvulus sericeus. It causes a white powdery coating on the leaves and can weaken the plant. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overwatering and make sure the plant gets enough sunlight and air circulation.
If you notice any signs of disease in your Evolvulus sericeus plant, remove the affected leaves or stems immediately and dispose of them in the garbage. Don't compost them, as the disease can linger in the compost and infect other plants.
Pest Management
Evolvulus sericeus is relatively pest-resistant, but it is still susceptible to some common plant pests. Here are the common pests that might affect the plant:
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap out of the leaves and stems of the plant. They can weaken the plant and cause it to wilt. To prevent aphids, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are tiny insects that look like grains of rice. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing it to weaken and wilt. To prevent mealybugs, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
3. Spider Mites: Spider mites are small pests that suck the sap out of the plant, causing it to yellow and wilt. They are difficult to see with the naked eye, so you may need a magnifying glass to identify them. To prevent spider mites, mist the plant regularly to increase humidity and spray it with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
If you notice any signs of pests in your Evolvulus sericeus plant, isolate it from other plants to prevent the pests from spreading. Then, treat the plant with a natural pesticide or insecticidal soap to get rid of the pests.
