White Bindweed

convolvulus lineatus

Also known as: ["Glandular Bindweed","Silky Bindweed"]

Family: Convolvulaceae Genus: Convolvulus Category: Flowers

Overview

A low-growing, spreading perennial with fine, silvery-gray foliage and small white flowers. It is a member of the morning glory family and is often found in dry, open habitats.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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 to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial afternoon shade.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to full sun; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching; ensure outdoor placement in open, sunny areas.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; avoid north-facing windows indoors.

Watering

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

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

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

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.

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

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 cactus-specific fertilizer for best results.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division.

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

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

Environment

Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.

Medium

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

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water sparingly post-repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wet foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency 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, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat if necessary; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.

Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Convolvulus lineatus can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Convolvulus lineatus is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root damage, which can impair nutrient uptake and potentially lead to plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Convolvulus lineatus may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic area and potential spread of infection to other parts of the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Convolvulus lineatus is typically caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Convolvulus lineatus. The toxic principle, convolvulin, can cause irritation to the digestive tract.

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

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Convolvulus lineatus can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of convolvulin. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.

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

if eaten

Prevent dogs from consuming any part of the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Convolvulus lineatus contains convolvulin, a resinous glycoside that can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation when ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to digestive discomfort.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and leaves. Keep out of reach of children.
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 lineatus invasive?

A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions due to its spreading habit.

Q: Does it require much water?

A: No, it is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions.

Q: Does it attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its small white flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Convolvulaceae
Care: easy
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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