Spanish Flag, Dwarf Morning Glory
evolvulus nummularius
Also known as: ["Dwarf Morning Glory","Blue Daze","Star Cluster"]
Overview
A low-growing, spreading perennial with small, round, silvery-green leaves and bright blue, funnel-shaped flowers that open in the morning and close by afternoon.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus: | Evolvulus |
| Botanical Name: | Evolvulus nummularius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or hanging basket in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during active growth; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense summer sun; avoid low-light areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots drain well.
Temperature
Prefers warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); can tolerate mild frost but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; division of clumps is also possible.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or moist soil.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water; perlite or sand can improve drainage.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, well-draining soil or water.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; may become root-bound if left too long.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a few weeks.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid surface watering; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves (cold stress); scorching, leaf drop (excessive heat).
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of root rot due to reduced evaporation.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; use a heat mat if necessary; protect from drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become stunted; soil dries out quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.
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
Non-toxicEvolvulus nummularius is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEvolvulus nummularius is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEvolvulus nummularius is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Evolvulus nummularius?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does this plant attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its bright blue flowers.
Q: Can I grow this plant indoors?
A: While possible, it thrives best in outdoor settings with full sun and good air circulation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Convolvulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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