Overview
Evolvulus squamosus Britt., also known as Texas dwarf morning glory, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. This perennial herbaceous plant is native to the southern United States, including Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. It is a popular ornamental plant and is widely used in landscaping.General Appearance
The Texas dwarf morning glory is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of about 6 inches and a spread of up to 2-3 feet. It has small, oblong-shaped leaves that are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The leaves are green with a slightly waxy texture and are about 3/4 inch long and 1/4 inch wide. The small flowers of the Texas dwarf morning glory are blue and funnel-shaped with a diameter of about 1 inch. They bloom from summer to fall and are located in the axils of the leaves.Common Names
The Texas dwarf morning glory is known by several other common names, including Silver Bush, Dwarf Evolvulus, and Bluet.Uses
The Texas dwarf morning glory is primarily used as an ornamental plant due to its striking blue flowers that bloom abundantly during the summer and fall. It is often used as a ground cover or as a border plant in landscaping. It is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun, making it an ideal plant for xeriscaping. The plant is also known to attract bees and butterflies, making it useful for pollinator-friendly gardens. In addition to its ornamental uses, the Texas dwarf morning glory has also been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever and diarrhea. The plant has also been used as a natural dye for fabric due to its bright blue color.Light Conditions
Evolvulus squamosus Britt. requires full sunlight to grow properly, although it can tolerate partial shade. It is recommended to plant the species in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. In case it is planted in moderate or dense shade, Evolvulus squamosus Britt. can become spindly and not produce as many flowers.
Temperature
Evolvulus squamosus Britt. prefers warm temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C-29°C) for optimum growth. If the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C), the plant growth slows down and can become susceptible to pests and diseases. While it can tolerate temperatures above 95°F (35°C), plants may not flower profusely at high temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Evolvulus squamosus Britt. grows well in well-draining soil with moderate organic matter content. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.2 to 7.5. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy or loamy types, as long as it is well-drained. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged environments, so it is crucial to provide adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
Cultivation of Evolvulus squamosus Britt.
Evolvulus squamosus Britt., commonly known as bush morning glory, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to South America. This plant prefers to grow in tropical or subtropical regions that have a relatively dry climate. It requires full sunlight to thrive and well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can also be grown in pots.
Watering Needs of Evolvulus squamosus Britt.
Regular watering is essential for the growth and development of Evolvulus squamosus Britt. It requires moderate watering and can withstand drought conditions. However, it is crucial to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Water only when the topsoil is dry to the touch, and avoid waterlogging the plant.
Fertilization of Evolvulus squamosus Britt.
Evolvulus squamosus Britt. needs regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, or 14-14-14, once every two weeks during the growing season. Fertilization should be stopped during the winter months when the plant goes dormant.
Pruning Evolvulus squamosus Britt.
Pruning is essential to keep the plant healthy and prevent it from becoming too leggy. Pruning is best done at the beginning of the growing season, just as the plant starts to produce new growth. It involves cutting back the old growth to promote new growth. Pinch back any weak or spindly stems, and remove any dead or diseased branches. Pruning also stimulates the plant to produce more flowers and buds.
Propagation of Evolvulus squamosus Britt.
Evolvulus squamosus Britt. is a beautiful ornamental plant that is commonly known as Hawaiian blue eyes. The propagation of Evolvulus squamosus Britt. can be done by various methods. The following are some of the propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Evolvulus squamosus Britt. can be done by seeds. The seeds should be sown in a well-drained pot or seed tray. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The germination process may take anywhere from one to two weeks. Once the seedlings have grown a few leaves, they can be transplanted to a larger pot or garden bed.
Root Cuttings
Evolvulus squamosus Britt. can also be propagated through root cuttings. Cut a section of the root, making sure that it has a few healthy nodes. Plant the cutting in a pot or directly in the garden bed. Water the soil and keep it moist. The cuttings may take several weeks to establish roots and start growing.
Division Propagation
Another way to propagate Evolvulus squamosus Britt. is through division. To do this, take an established plant and carefully dig it up. Gently separate the rootball into smaller sections, making sure each section has a healthy root system. Replant the smaller sections into pots or garden beds and water them well.
Propagation of Evolvulus squamosus Britt. can be done all year-round as long as the right conditions are met. With patience and care, propagating this beautiful plant is relatively easy and rewarding.
Disease and pest management for Evolvulus squamosus Britt.
Evolvulus squamosus Britt., commonly known as Hawaiian blue eyes, is a perennial herb that is widely cultivated for its attractive blue flowers and its ground-covering ability. Despite its hardiness, the plant is susceptible to some common pests and diseases that might affect its growth and vigor. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage these pests and diseases, ensuring that the plant remains healthy and vibrant.
Common diseases affecting Evolvulus squamosus Britt.
Evolvulus squamosus Britt. can be affected by several diseases that might cause significant damage to the plant. The most common diseases affecting the plant include root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can cause the roots of the plant to rot, leading to poor growth and eventual death. To manage root rot, it is essential to prevent overwatering, improve soil drainage, and sanitize any gardening tools before using them on the plant.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause circular spots on the leaves of the plant, leading to defoliation. To manage leaf spot, it is essential to remove any infected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant, leading to stunted growth. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to improve air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and use fungicides when necessary.
Common pests affecting Evolvulus squamosus Britt.
Evolvulus squamosus Britt. can also be affected by several pests that might cause significant damage to the plant. The most common pests affecting the plant include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, leading to stunted growth and deformed leaves. To manage aphids, it is essential to remove any infected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and use insecticidal soaps or oils when necessary.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause webbing on the leaves of the plant, leading to poor growth and eventual death. To manage spider mites, it is essential to improve air circulation around the plant, use insecticidal soaps or oils when necessary, and regularly wash the leaves of the plant to remove any mites.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small pests that can cause a sticky residue on the leaves of the plant, leading to poor growth and eventual death. To manage mealybugs, it is essential to remove any infected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and use insecticidal soaps or oils when necessary.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, it is possible to keep Evolvulus squamosus Britt. healthy and vibrant, ensuring that the plant thrives and remains attractive in any garden or landscape.
