Great Bindweed
calystegia silvatica
Also known as: ["Wood Bindweed","White Honeysuckle"]
Overview
A vigorous, twining vine with large, heart-shaped leaves and white, trumpet-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus: | Calystegia |
| Botanical Name: | Calystegia silvatica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden border or trellis support
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use mulch to retain moisture; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth stage.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establishment in new pot takes 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; remove crossing or crowded stems to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control vigorous growth, encourage bushier habit, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, make clean cuts, remove dead/diseased wood, shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for controlling size and vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil mix, trim roots if needed, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, wilting, stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf burn in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; roots are vulnerable to freezing in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants indoors; ensure soil is well-drained to prevent frost damage.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; increased water demand to prevent dehydration.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide shade during peak heat; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding, monitor for signs of over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the roots or tubers of Calystegia silvatica. The alkaloids present can cause discomfort but are not usually severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Calystegia silvatica roots or tubers can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of alkaloids. While not typically life-threatening, ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCalystegia silvatica, commonly known as giant bindweed, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The roots and tubers are the primary toxic parts, containing alkaloids that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Calystegia silvatica invasive?
A: Yes, it is considered invasive in many regions due to its vigorous growth and ability to smother other plants.
Q: Does Great Bindweed attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its large white flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How should I control its spread?
A: Regular pruning and root barrier installation can help manage its spread.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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