Sea Bindweed

convolvulus soldanella

Also known as: ["Sea Bindweed","Beach Bindweed"]

Family: Convolvulaceae Genus: Convolvulus Category: Flowers

Overview

A coastal plant with trailing stems and funnel-shaped flowers, adapted to sandy or rocky shores.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: coastal gardens, rockeries, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months during active growth.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates coastal conditions and salt spray.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; thrives in coastal areas with direct sun.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Full sun is essential; coastal exposure is beneficial; avoid deep shade.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil

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

Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates coastal winds and cooler nights.

Protect from frost; avoid waterlogging in cool weather; ensure good air flow in heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; fertilize only during growing season.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in propagation medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

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

Environment

Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional month.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use sharp, sterile tools; keep cuttings warm and humid; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.

Checklist

Use clean tools; prune dead or crossing branches; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor.

Checklist

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

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain freely.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the base of the plant without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly during active growth, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or root rot in cold, waterlogged conditions.

Cold Stress

Susceptible to root rot in cold, wet soil; may suffer from frost damage in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; protect roots from frost with mulch; avoid overwatering in cool weather.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt or scorch in intense heat without adequate water; growth may slow.

Solution: Provide consistent moisture; offer some afternoon shade in extreme heat; improve air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize monthly in growing season; stop in winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Convolvulus soldanella may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Convolvulus soldanella can result from water stress, root damage, or disease, impairing the plant's ability to transport water and nutrients.

Leaf spots on Convolvulus soldanella are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, which can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and lead to defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Convolvulus soldanella due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may suffer mild gastrointestinal issues if they ingest Convolvulus soldanella. The plant is not considered highly toxic to cats but can cause mild symptoms if consumed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Convolvulus soldanella. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if ingested in significant amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Convolvulus soldanella contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic in large quantities or with prolonged exposure.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and minimize skin contact. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
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: Is Convolvulus soldanella toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How does this plant adapt to coastal conditions?

A: It has specialized root systems and salt-tolerant foliage to thrive in sandy or rocky shores.

Q: Does it require frequent watering?

A: It is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells.

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