Overview
Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court. is a climbing, herbaceous, annual plant that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. The plant is mainly found in North Africa, the Mediterranean region, and Europe. This plant is known for its various medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known by various names, such as Black bindweed, Creeping smartweed, Pale persicaria, Wild buckwheat, Stone-climbing weed, and Blackweed.
Appearance
The stems of this plant are slender, branched, and can grow up to 100 cm long. The leaves are dark green, alternate, and heart-shaped or arrowhead-shaped. The flowers are small, pink, and inconspicuous, arranged in clusters on spikes at the end of the branches. The fruits are black, glossy, and shaped like small triangles.
Uses
The plant has several medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments, such as fever, headaches, respiratory problems, and stomach disorders. It is also used as an astringent, diuretic, and laxative. The plant has been found to contain various alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins that are responsible for its medicinal properties. Additionally, the plant is used as a food crop in some regions, where the seeds are used to make flour and porridge.
Light Requirements
Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court. is a plant that prefers full sunlight exposure. The plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to grow properly. Lack of sunlight can cause the plant to be weak and prone to diseases. Additionally, low light exposure can hamper the plant's ability to flower and produce seeds.
Temperature Requirements
Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court. thrives in warm temperatures between 20-30°C. The plant can tolerate a wide temperature range, but low temperatures can affect its growth and development. The seeds of the plant germinate at a minimum temperature of 12°C, but at this temperature, the plant's growth is significantly reduced.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil with moderate to high fertility. It grows best in soil with a pH range of 6-7.5. The plant's roots are shallow, so the soil must be able to retain moisture but not become waterlogged. Dry soil can prevent the plant from growing properly, while waterlogged soil can lead to root rot. Additionally, the plant is not tolerant to saline soils.
Cultivation methods
Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court. is an annual weed that thrives in a range of different soil types, but it prefers loamy, well-drained soils with a neutral pH. It is best to grow this plant in direct sunlight, but it can also thrive in partial shade. It's important to ensure that the planting site is free of weeds and debris to provide a clean environment for the plant's growth.
This plant can be propagated by either sowing seeds directly into the soil or by starting seeds indoors. The ideal time to sow Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court. seeds is in early spring, after the soil has warmed up to around 15°C. When starting the plant indoors, it is recommended to sow the seeds in pots about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
Watering needs
To ensure the best growth and survival of Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court., it is important to maintain a consistent watering schedule. This plant thrives in moist soil, but overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems. It is best to water the plants deeply once or twice a week, especially during hot and dry periods. When watering, it is important to avoid getting the leaves wet to reduce the chances of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Applying a balanced fertilizer can help Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court. grow vigorously. It is best to fertilize the plant in early spring before the flowering stage begins. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied at the base of the plant and mixed into the soil. It is important to follow the recommended dosage on the fertilizer package and to avoid over-fertilizing as this may lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court. does not require any pruning; however, removing any yellow or diseased leaves can help prevent the spread of diseases. Deadheading the flowers can also encourage the plant to produce more blooms. In addition, removing spent flowers can also prevent the plant from self-seeding and spreading too widely.
Propagation of Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court.
Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court. can be propagated by both vegetative and sexual methods.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court. is done through stem cuttings. Stem cuttings are taken in spring when the plant starts to grow. The cutting should be 5-6 inches long and should have at least two leaves. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone before being planted in a well-drained potting mix. Cuttings should be kept in a warm and moist environment until they root, which usually takes two to four weeks.
Sexual propagation
Sexual propagation of Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court. is done through seeds. The plant produces small seeds that can be harvested when they turn brown. Seeds can be sown directly in the ground in late spring or early summer. Before planting, the soil should be loosened and enriched with organic matter. Seeds should be lightly covered with soil and watered regularly until germination, which usually takes up to two weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court.
Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court. is vulnerable to various diseases and pests, including:
Diseases
Root Rot: The fungus, Rhizoctonia solani, causes root rot. The infected plants show wilting, stunted growth, and yellowing of leaves. Crop rotation, soil sterilization, and well-drained soil can help in prevention and management.
Downy Mildew: The fungus, Peronospora farinosa, causes downy mildew. The infected plants show yellowing, stunted growth, and down-like growth on the undersides of the leaves. Crop rotation, reducing humidity, and fungicide applications can help in prevention and management.
Powdery Mildew: The fungus, Erysiphe sp., causes powdery mildew. The infected plants show white powdery growth on the leaves and stems. Avoid overhead irrigation, increase air circulation, and fungicide applications can help in prevention and management.
Pests
Cutworms: The larvae of the noctuid moths cause cutworm infestations. The infected plants show wilting and cut stems near the soil line. Till the soil before planting, use mechanical barriers, and insecticide applications can help in prevention and management.
Aphids: The tiny, soft-bodied insects suck sap from leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil, encourage beneficial insects, and improve plant nutrition can help in prevention and management.
Spider Mites: The tiny mites suck sap from leaves, causing yellowing and fine webbing. Increase air humidity, avoid dusty conditions, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil can help in prevention and management.
Combining cultural, mechanical, and chemical practices can aid in the prevention and management of diseases and pests in Polygonum convolvulus L. var. subulatum Lej. & Court. plants.
