Dwarf Morning Glory

convolvulus tricolor

Also known as: ["Spanish Flag","Tricolor Bindweed"]

Family: Convolvulaceae Genus: Convolvulus Category: Flowers

Overview

An annual flowering plant known for its vibrant blue, yellow, and white flowers that open in the morning.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Solanales
Family: Convolvulaceae
Genus: Convolvulus
Botanical Name: Convolvulus tricolor

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun, or container in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers regularly; light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in full sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; maximize light exposure for blooms.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a cactus or succulent mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid waterlogged soil.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in heat but can tolerate mild cold.

Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering for temperature changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize sparingly to avoid leggy growth; apply after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in fall and winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Keep warm and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun until established.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or water for initial rooting.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim spent flowers just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.

Tools

Clean pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Use clean tools; prune spent flowers; pinch back leggy stems; avoid cutting into old wood.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and bloom production.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom but avoid waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or bud drop in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with a frost cloth if temperatures drop below 50°F; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt or scorch; flowers may fade quickly; growth may become stressed in prolonged heat above 90°F (32°C).

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; mist foliage during extreme heat to cool the plant.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Convolvulus tricolor may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, or may be caused by overwatering, root rot, or pest infestations like spider mites or aphids. It can also result from environmental stress, such as excessive sunlight or poor soil drainage.

Wilting in Convolvulus tricolor is often a sign of water stress, either due to under-watering or over-watering leading to root rot. It can also be caused by pest infestations or diseases that affect the plant's vascular system, impairing water transport.

Leaf spots on Convolvulus tricolor may be caused by fungal pathogens like Cercospora or Alternaria, leading to necrotic lesions on the leaves. These spots can coalesce, causing defoliation and reduced photosynthetic efficiency, weakening the plant.

Rotting in Convolvulus tricolor is typically associated with root or stem rot, caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil, leading to fungal infections such as Pythium or Fusarium. This can cause the plant to decline rapidly, with mushy stems and roots.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they consume parts of Convolvulus tricolor. The toxic principle, convolvulin, can cause irritation to the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression anorexia
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected and symptoms develop.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Convolvulus tricolor can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of convolvulin. Symptoms are typically transient but may require veterinary attention if severe.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from dogs. If ingestion occurs, monitor for symptoms and consult a veterinarian if necessary.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Convolvulus tricolor contains convolvulin, a resinous substance that can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort if ingested in significant quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of plant parts, especially seeds. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should Convolvulus tricolor be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Convolvulus tricolor attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Q: Is Convolvulus tricolor toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Quick Reference
Family: Convolvulaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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