Woodland Bindweed
convolvulus silvaticus
Also known as: ["Woodland Morning Glory","Forest Bindweed"]
Overview
A climbing vine with heart-shaped leaves and white or pinkish flowers, native to woodland areas.
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 silvaticus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or container in a sheltered area
- Suitable For:
- 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 to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning unless
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade in hot climates; indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense midday sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then let the soil dry out; avoid frequent shallow watering which encourages weak roots.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in heat.
Avoid placing near air conditioning vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; can also be propagated by division in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity by covering with plastic; keep out of direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp shears to cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove any crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems; best done in early spring before new growth begins.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; cut above nodes; remove dead or diseased growth; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has 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 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the foliage; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
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
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop; prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C) may be fatal.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during cold spells; provide a protective layer of mulch for in-ground plants; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble 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 suffer mild gastrointestinal issues if they ingest Convolvulus silvaticus. The plant's alkaloids can lead to discomfort but are not usually severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Convolvulus silvaticus. The plant's alkaloids can cause discomfort but are not typically fatal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicConvolvulus silvaticus contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can be uncomfortable.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Convolvulus silvaticus invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions and may require control measures.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It tolerates partial shade but prefers full sun for optimal flowering.
Q: Is it safe for pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, so caution is advised.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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