Mediterranean bindweed
convolvulus cantabrica
Also known as: ["Rabbit-ears bindweed","Mediterranean bindweed"]
Overview
A low-growing, spreading perennial with silvery, fuzzy leaves and small, pinkish-white flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus: | Convolvulus |
| Botanical Name: | Convolvulus cantabrica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months during active growth; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown, otherwise light shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid placing in shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula for even nutrition.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot after 6–8 weeks
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or weak stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, disinfectant
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain freely from the pot or soil.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
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
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced evaporation.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; reduce watering during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and water demand increases, leading to wilting if not hydrated.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicConvolvulus cantabrica is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested or touched by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicConvolvulus cantabrica is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicConvolvulus cantabrica is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known adverse physiological effects when handled or ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Convolvulus cantabrica invasive?
A: It can spread vigorously in ideal conditions but is generally not considered highly invasive compared to other bindweeds.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does it attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and butterflies, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
