Silver Bush

convolvulus cneorum

Also known as: ["Silver Bush","Bushy Bindweed"]

Family: Convolvulaceae Genus: Convolvulus Category: Shrubs

Overview

A compact, evergreen shrub with silvery-white foliage and funnel-shaped white flowers with yellow throats.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny, sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate
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 gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

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

Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil

pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Use gritty mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize sparingly to avoid salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to prevent nutrient lockout; stop fertilizing in fall.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

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

Best Time: Late spring to early summer

Environment

High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F)

Medium

Perlite and peat moss mix

Hormone

Recommended for faster rooting

Timeline

Roots in 3–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective removal of older stems and deadwood; shaping cuts to maintain compact form

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead or diseased stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refreshment

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; 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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

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 feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, wilting, or browning edges in extreme heat; stunted growth or yellowing in cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may suffer leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to root rot in wet, cold soil.

Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; ensure well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat; may drop leaves to conserve water.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid wetting foliage.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Convolvulus cneorum can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or mealybugs, affecting the plant's overall health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Convolvulus cneorum is often a sign of water stress, either due to underwatering or root rot caused by overwatering, which can lead to reduced nutrient uptake and plant vitality.

Leaf spots on Convolvulus cneorum may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root rot, in Convolvulus cneorum is commonly associated with overwatering or poor drainage, leading to the decay of roots and lower stems, which can ultimately cause plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they ingest parts of Convolvulus cneorum. The plant is not highly toxic to cats, but ingestion should be avoided.

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

if eaten

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

In dogs, ingestion of Convolvulus cneorum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but care should be taken to prevent pets from consuming it.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Convolvulus cneorum 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 for individuals with sensitive digestive systems or skin.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and minimize skin contact. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the plant.
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 cneorum be watered?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, especially in winter.

Q: Does Silver Bush require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

Q: Can Convolvulus cneorum be grown indoors?

A: It is best suited for outdoor cultivation due to its size and light requirements.

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