Ground Morning Glory
convolvulus sabatius
Also known as: ["Blue Daze","Ground Morning Glory"]
Overview
A low-growing, trailing vine with bright blue flowers and heart-shaped leaves, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus: | Convolvulus |
| Botanical Name: | Convolvulus sabatius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, hanging baskets, or containers in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; more significant pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but benefits from partial shade in hot regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching; provide shade during peak afternoon sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant regularly; avoid direct midday sun in summer; provide dappled light in intense heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
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 mild temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but not frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture
Medium
Well-draining potting mix such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, propagation medium
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems to improve air circulation and flowering.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter about 2 inches wider.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom of the pot, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter, only providing enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out.
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 excessive heat; leaf drop or blackened stems in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death, especially below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering due to water stress and heat shock.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure good drainage; avoid fertilizing during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a 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
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Convolvulus sabatius. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Convolvulus sabatius can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicConvolvulus sabatius 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 sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Convolvulus sabatius?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Convolvulus sabatius attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its bright blue flowers.
Q: Is Convolvulus sabatius toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, so keep it out of reach of pets.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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