Cantabrican Morning Glory Convolvulus cantabrica
ABOUT
The Cantabrican morning glory is a plant with a spreading habit, showcasing a plethora of charming flowers. Its leaves are generally small, and they have a somewhat hairy texture. The shape of the leaves can be described as narrow at the base, widening out towards the tip, exhibiting a lance-like form. The plant is adorned with blooms that exhibit a bell or funnel shape, which is very distinctive for morning glory species. These flowers boast a vibrant color, often a striking shade of pink or lilac, with a paler throat, which adds to their appeal. The blooms are typically found clustered together, creating a delightful visual impact. This plant is known to attract butterflies and bees, thanks to its attractive flowers and the nectar they produce. Overall, the Cantabrican morning glory adds a splash of color and a touch of wild, natural beauty to landscapes and gardens where it thrives.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Convolvulaceae
Synonyms
Cantabrian Morning Glory, Bindweed Of Cantabria, Cantabrican Bindweed
Common names
Convolvulus boissieri, Convolvulus cneorum var. cantabrica, Convolvulus cantabricus.
ToxicityTo humans
Convolvulus cantabrica, commonly known as the Cantabrican morning glory, does not have a well-documented toxicity profile in the literature available up to early 2023. Therefore, there is limited information regarding its toxicity to humans. As with many plants, it is generally recommended to avoid ingestion because many species in the family Convolvulaceae contain compounds that can be harmful. If you suspect poisoning from any plant, seek medical attention promptly.
To pets
Convolvulus cantabrica, known as the Cantabrican morning glory, like its toxicity to humans, does not have a well-documented profile regarding its toxicity to pets. Without specific information, it should still be considered that many plants in the Convolvulaceae family may contain compounds that can be toxic to animals if ingested. Symptoms of plant poisoning in pets can include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abnormal heart rate, and more serious complications depending upon the plant and the amount ingested. If you suspect your pet has ingested this plant, contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 feet (0.3 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion Control: The plant's root system helps to stabilize the soil, reducing erosion in hilly and sandy areas.
- Habitat Support: Provides nectar and pollen for a variety of insects, thus supporting local biodiversity.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant, making it ideal for xeriscaping and arid climates.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its showy blooms, it adds visual interest to gardens and natural landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, with no need for regular watering, fertilizing, or pruning.
- Ground Cover: Can serve as an effective ground cover, filling in landscape areas to suppress weeds.
- Adaptability: Can thrive in a wide range of soils, making it a versatile addition to diverse garden settings.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Cantabrican morning glory can be used as a natural dye source, providing shades of blue and green dependent on processing methods.
- In some cultures, the tendrils and vines of the Cantabrican morning glory have been woven into small decorative items or jewelry.
- The mature stems of this plant can be used to create a rustic twine or string, following appropriate drying and twisting techniques.
- The plant has been used in traditional basket-weaving, where its flexible stems are incorporated into the design.
- Cantabrican morning glory is sometimes included in companion planting strategies to benefit nearby plants by attracting pollinators.
- The vigorous growth of Cantabrican morning glory can be utilized for living green sculptures by guiding the vines over frameworks.
- In some traditions, the seeds of the Cantabrican morning glory were used as a barter item or a symbol of friendship.
- Gardeners might employ the plant as a natural ground cover to prevent soil erosion in areas prone to this problem.
- The Cantabrican morning glory is occasionally used in landscape designs to cover unsightly fences or walls.
- Pressed and dried leaves and flowers of the Cantabrican morning glory can be used in botanical art and herbarium collections.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Convolvulus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Convolvulus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Binding Love: The Convolvulus, also known as bindweed, symbolizes the entwining and enduring nature of love, reflecting the way the plant's vines wrap around objects.
- Perseverance: Known for its ability to thrive in difficult conditions, the Convolvulus represents the ability to persist and continue growing despite challenges.
- Humble Beginnings: The simple beauty of the Convolvulus flowers represents modesty and the importance of remembering one's roots.
WaterThe Bush Morning Glory should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage a strong root system. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between watering sessions. On average, this may mean watering once every week or two, depending on the climate and weather conditions. When watering, aim for about one gallon of water for outdoor plants, ensuring even soil moisture. During hot and dry periods, increase the frequency to prevent wilting, and in cooler, wetter months, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
LightThe Bush Morning Glory thrives in full sunlight where it can receive at least six hours of direct light each day. Place it in a spot where it will have unobstructed access to sunlight, such as a south-facing garden or a bright windowsill for indoor plants. This plant loves the sun and will perform best when provided plenty of light.
TemperatureBush Morning Glory prefers a temperate range from the mid-50s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. It is hardy in mild climates but may struggle with frost, so it should not be exposed to temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally, maintain an environment above freezing and below 86 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth.
PruningPruning the Bush Morning Glory helps maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Trim back the plant after the blooming period, usually in the late summer or early fall. Remove any dead or damaged stems and cut back about a third of the plant to promote new growth. Pruning can be done annually or as needed to keep the plant tidy.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Cantabrica Morning Glory should be well-draining and sandy, with a pH level ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, around 6.0 to 7.5. Incorporate organic matter to enrich the soil and ensure good drainage.
RepottingCantabrica Morning Glory should be repotted every two to three years or when it outgrows its current pot. It's important to refresh the soil to prevent nutrient depletion and to allow for healthy root growth.
Humidity & MistingCantabrica Morning Glory thrives in average humidity conditions and does not require high humidity to grow well. Typical indoor humidity levels are sufficient for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright, indirect light and well-draining soil for indoor Cantabrica Morning Glories.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil; tolerate drought.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Cantabrican bindweed (Convolvulus cantabrica) begins with seed germination, typically in the spring, when soil temperatures and moisture levels become conducive to sprouting. Once germinated, the seedling emerges and establishes a root system while growing its first leaves for photosynthesis. The plant enters a vegetative growth phase, developing a robust stem and foliage as it matures. During the flowering stage, usually in the summer, the Cantabrican bindweed produces funnel-shaped flowers, which are predominantly pink or white. These flowers are subsequently pollinated, leading to the production of seeds, thereby enabling sexual reproduction. As the plant reaches the end of its life cycle, it senesces, with seeds dispersing to the environment, ensuring the continuation of the species in the next season or year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Convolvulus cantabrica, commonly known as Cantabrican morning glory, is often propagated through seeds. The ideal time to sow the seeds is in spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed. To propagate Cantabrican morning glory by seeds, one should first soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the tough outer coat. Afterwards, plant the seeds in well-draining soil at a depth of about 1/4 inch (approximately 6 millimeters), ensuring they are spaced adequately to allow for growth. In suitable conditions, with full sunlight and moderately fertile soil, germination usually occurs within two to three weeks. Seedlings can then be thinned out or transplanted once they have developed a couple of true leaves and are big enough to handle. This method allows gardeners to produce a large number of plants relatively easily and economically.
