Convolvulus sabatius
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Convolvulus sabatius

African bindweed · Ground Blue-convolvulus · Blue Rock Bindweed

Tier 1 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun
Water every
7 days
Temperature
15–35 °C
Soil pH
5–7
Hardiness
Zone 7–9
Click count
79
Observations
626

Description

Source: leafsnap

Convolvulus sabatius, commonly known as Blue Rock Bindweed or Ground Morning Glory, is a low-growing perennial plant within the Convolvulaceae family. Native to the Mediterranean region, it can be found in parts of Europe, North Africa, and Asia. This plant has a trailing habit with slender stems that can extend up to 30 cm in length. Its small, oval-shaped leaves are glossy green. The trumpet-shaped flowers, featuring five petals, range in color from pale blue to violet-blue. Convolvulus sabatius is easy to cultivate and thrives in full sun or partial shade with well-drained soil. It needs moderate watering during the growing season but should be kept dry during its winter dormancy. Due to its low-growing habit and attractive blue flowers, which bloom from spring until fall, this plant is commonly used as ground cover. Additionally, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it an excellent choice for wildlife gardens. Overall, Convolvulus sabatius is an appealing perennial ground cover for gardeners seeking easy-to-grow plants with beautiful blue flowers throughout the growing season, while also providing benefits for pollinators.

🌳 Blue rock bindweed is frequently underrated for potential beyond ornamental use. Although it is chiefly used in landscaping for its trailing habit and bright blooms, it may have untapped applications in areas like phytoremediation. That potential would rely on the plant’s ability to remove specific elements from the soil, making it a natural option for environmental clean-up efforts.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days

Blue rock bindweed, native to the Mediterranean coasts, thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate dry conditions. It benefits from weekly watering to maintain optimal hydration. This plant is ideal for outdoor settings as it can withstand full sun and is well-suited for xeriscaping, effectively utilizing natural rainfall.

Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
FAQ
What's the best way to water my Blue rock bindweed?

To promote excellent root development for your plants, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, it's best to avoid spraying the leaves directly with water. Instead, focus on watering at the base of the plant. If your plants are outdoors and exposed to direct sunlight, the leaves will likely need more water. One way to ensure the roots get enough moisture is by using bubblers or soaker hoses. Bubblers can be attached to each plant to moisten the roots, while soaker hoses can cover the entire garden or flower bed, ensuring deep root watering when adding or removing plants. After watering, make sure to drain any excess water and allow the soil to dry before watering again. This will help prevent diseases. On a sunny day, it may be beneficial to spray the entire plant with water. Lastly, whether your plant is in a pot or in the ground, remember that Blue rock bindweed prefers deep watering rather than light sprinkling.

What should I do if I give Blue rock bindweed too much or too little water?

If a Blue rock bindweed is overwatered, it may exhibit yellowing, wilting, and dropping leaves. The plant's appearance may also appear lackluster and unhealthy, with mushy stems. When these signs begin to show, it is recommended to adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Wilting can also occur as a result of under-watering, which is characterized by crispy and dry leaves. If the soil is dry and watering alone is not sufficient, a thorough watering is necessary. Sufficient water will help the Blue rock bindweed recover, although the plant may still exhibit dryness and yellow leaves due to damage to the root system. Once the plant returns to normal, the yellowing of leaves will cease. When caring for Blue rock bindweed indoors, always check the moisture levels in the pot and avoid overwatering. If black spots are present, allow the soil to dry out for a few days before watering again. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it may be necessary to repot the plant if discolored and slimy roots are observed. Preventing root rot and avoiding excessively soggy soil is important. When planting Blue rock bindweed outdoors, ensure that the soil is adequately moist; dry soil could indicate under-watering. Proper watering is essential for the plant's recovery.

How often do I need to water my Blue rock bindweed plant?

The Blue rock bindweed prefers deep and infrequent watering, especially when planted in pots. To ensure proper watering, soak the plant in a gallon of water each time. Since water storage in flower pots is limited and the soil tends to dry out quickly, watering is needed every 3 to 5 days in cold regions. It is best to water the plant early in the morning when the soil is dry, whether it is indoors or outdoors. You can also check the soil moisture level by examining the top 2-3 inches. If the soil is dry, it is time to give the plant a full watering. During hot days, check the soil moisture daily, as the heat can rapidly dry out the pot's soil. If you have a garden, irrigation of the soil is necessary as well. In hot climates, watering once a week is sufficient when about 2 to 3 inches of soil have become too dry. Remember to consider the amount of natural rainfall and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Blue rock bindweed typically grows during spring and fall. Outdoors, adding mulch about 3 to 4 inches deep is recommended to conserve water. Sandy soil drains faster, so plants in this type of soil will require more frequent watering. On the other hand, with clay soil, you can water less frequently, allowing the plant to dry out for 2-3 days without developing root rot. To keep track of watering schedule, mark the date on the calendar and pay attention to any drooping leaves, which may indicate the need for watering.

How much water does my Blue rock bindweed need?

The Blue rock bindweed generally needs about a gallon of water on a regular schedule. For potted plants, water them deeply until you see water dripping from the bottom of the pot. Wait for the soil to dry before watering again. Use a water calculator or moisture meter to determine how much water you've given the plant in a week. During the flowering period, provide plenty of water but allow the moisture to evaporate to prevent root rot. If the Blue rock bindweed is planted outdoors and receives adequate rainfall, additional watering may not be necessary. When the bindweed is young or newly planted, ensure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As the bindweed grows, it can survive solely on rainfall. Only if the weather is extremely hot or if there is no rainfall for 2-3 weeks, consider giving the bindweed a full watering during cooler times of the day to prevent heat damage. Additional watering will be needed during prolonged dry spells.

Should I change how often I water my Blue rock bindweed depending on the time of year or the weather?

The Blue rock bindweed thrives outdoors in rainy conditions, but will require watering during persistently dry weather. For optimal growth during the spring and fall, the soil should be kept moist but not soggy. Alternating between dry and moist soil conditions will benefit the Blue rock bindweed. In the summer, hot weather and lack of rainfall may cause the water to evaporate too quickly, so more frequent watering is necessary to keep the soil moist. However, during winter, the Blue rock bindweed requires less water as it drops its leaves and goes dormant. To aid in quicker evaporation, use a well-draining but moisture-retentive soil mixture like terracotta. Once the Blue rock bindweed begins to leaf out, watering can be skipped altogether as it can rely on fall and winter rains to survive. When the temperature becomes warmer in the spring, you can encourage the Blue rock bindweed to grow and bloom. Good drainage is crucial throughout the year, especially during winter. If the plant is in a pot, it has limited root growth, so it should be well-watered, especially during the summer. Ensure proper drainage to avoid cold and wet roots, particularly during growth. It's recommended to water the Blue rock bindweed thoroughly, allowing the entire root system to have a deep soak at least once or twice a week, depending on the weather. Shallow sprinkles that reach the leaves should be avoided as they encourage fungal growth but don't reach the roots. Even during dormancy in the fall or winter, the Blue rock bindweed should not be allowed to dry out completely. Overwatering should be avoided as well, as the plant does not thrive in waterlogged soil, and poor drainage can cause death during winter. Additionally, applying mulch when possible can help reduce stress, conserve water, and promote healthy blooms.

☀️ Light Full sun

A plentiful supply of sunlight is vital for the vigorous growth of blue rock bindweed. An environment with abundant sun reflects its native habitat. However, both insufficient and excessive light can negatively impact its growth.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
What are the sunlight requirements for Blue rock bindweed?

Blue rock bindweed thrives in conditions that replicate its ancestral habitat, requiring an abundant amount of sunlight for robust growth. The plant can be classified into two sunlight categories: full sun, which is more than 6 hours of sunlight daily, and partial sun, about 3-6 hours of sunlight daily. It's crucial to watch how sunlight moves through your garden, selecting spots that offer a perfect balance of light and shade to ensure the plants' happiness. However, both lack and excess of light may affect the plant's growth negatively.

How can artificial lighting benefit Blue rock bindweed?

When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in less sunny spaces or during winter, artificial lighting becomes crucial for the optimal growth of Blue rock bindweed, especially for indoor plants. A variety of artificial lights, including LED lights, can be customized to provide specific wavelengths needed by plants. For full sun plants, 30-50W per square foot is recommended; partial sun plants require 20-30W per square foot, and full shade plants need 10-20W per square foot. Positioning the light source 12-36 inches above the plant and ensuring 8-12 hours of light per day will mimic natural sunlight conditions and promote healthier growth.

What are the symptoms of insufficient or excessive sunlight in Blue rock bindweed?

Blue rock bindweed may show several symptoms under suboptimal lighting conditions, including smaller new leaves, leggy or sparse growth, faster leaf drop, and halted new growth, indicating light deficiency. In contrast, excessive sunlight can lead to symptoms like chlorosis (leaves turning yellow due to the breakdown of chlorophyll), sunscald (leaf or stem damage from intense light exposure), leaf curling, wilting, and leaf scorching characterized by brown, dry, crispy edges. These symptoms reflect the delicate balance required in light exposure for the plant's well-being.

What are the solutions for managing light exposure for Blue rock bindweed?

Effective management of light exposure for Blue rock bindweed involves several strategies. Indoors, gradually shift the plant to sunnier locations to achieve at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, using a south-facing window for natural light or artificial light for at least 8 hours each day. Outdoors, similarly, adapt plants to sunnier spots gradually, avoiding sudden light intensity changes. If sunlight is obstructed, consider pruning or transplanting smaller plants to sunnier locations with good drainage. Not all symptoms of light stress may be reversible, but increasing light exposure properly can encourage healthy new growth.

🌡️ Temperature 15–35°C

Blue rock bindweed is native to areas where temperatures typically range from 59 to 95 °F (15 to 35 °C). It does well in these warm conditions and may need extra heating if grown in cooler locations during the colder months.

Ideal temperature: 15–35°C
FAQ
What is the ideal temperature range for growing Blue rock bindweed?

Blue rock bindweed thrives in regions where the temperature typically ranges from 59 to 95 °F (15 to 35 °C). It flourishes in these warmer climates and may require additional heating in cooler areas during the colder seasons. Although it has strong cold resistance and usually does not need special frost protection measures during winter, if temperatures are expected to drop below -15°C, it is important to provide cold protection by wrapping the trunk and branches with materials like non-woven fabric or cloth. Additionally, before the first freeze in autumn, it's recommended to water the plant abundantly to ensure the soil remains moist and enters a frozen state, aiding in drought prevention during winter and early spring.

How does Blue rock bindweed respond to low temperatures, and how can these effects be mitigated?

Blue rock bindweed is cold-tolerant and thrives best when temperatures are above 15°C. In winter, it should be kept above -10°C. When the temperature falls below -15°C, the branches may not show noticeable changes during winter but may become brittle and dry by spring, failing to produce new shoots. To mitigate these effects, it is recommended to prune away any dead branches that have failed to produce new leaves in spring.

What are the effects of high temperatures on Blue rock bindweed, and how can they be addressed?

During the summer, Blue rock bindweed should be kept below 35°C to avoid heat stress. When the temperature exceeds 38°C, the leaves may lighten in color, tips may become dry and withered, and the plant may become more susceptible to sunburn. To address these issues, trim away the sunburned and dried-up parts. Additionally, move the plant to a location that provides shade during the midday and afternoon sun, or use a shade cloth to protect it. Watering the plant in the morning and evening can also help keep the soil moist and reduce heat stress.

What is the botanical name of Blue rock bindweed?

The botanical name of Blue rock bindweed is Convolvulus sabatius.

💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 5-7
Soil pH: 5-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Proper timing is essential for fertilizing Blue rock bindweed. Apply fertilizer in early spring and continue monthly until early summer. Fertilizer encourages beautiful blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth periods.

FAQ
Why should I put fertilizer on my Blue rock bindweed?

To help your Blue rock bindweed thrive and produce beautiful flowers, it is important to fertilize it. Fertilizing in early spring is crucial for ensuring excellent blooms during the season. Additionally, fertilizing during fall planting or late spring will provide your Blue rock bindweed with extra nutrients that it can store for later use during its dormant growth phases. This energy will help the plant have a strong and healthy active growth period.

What is the ideal time to fertilize my Blue rock bindweed?

To ensure effective fertilization for Blue rock bindweed, timing is crucial. Applying fertilizer too early, while the plant is still dormant, results in wastage and pollution as rainwater washes it away. The recommended timing for the first application of fertilizer is early spring, followed by monthly fertilization until early summer.

When is it not a good idea to add fertilizer to my Blue rock bindweed?

To promote better blooming, it is important to avoid using fertilizers with high levels of nitrogen for Blue rock bindweed. Instead, opt for fertilizers with a lower nitrogen content but a balanced nutrient profile. Furthermore, it is advisable to refrain from fertilizing after early autumn, as excessive growth before winter can be detrimental. Additionally, it is not recommended to fertilize Blue rock bindweed during hot and dry periods, as dry soil is not as efficient in delivering nutrients and growth stimulation may result in increased water requirements that can't be met. For optimal results, it is best to apply fertilizer earlier in the season when temperatures are cooler. Lastly, be cautious about inadvertently over-fertilizing nearby plants or lawns, as Blue rock bindweed can absorb excess fertilizer.

Which fertilizer is best for my Blue rock bindweed?

For the Blue rock bindweed, an ideal fertilizer should have a relatively balanced mix of the three main plant nutrients, with slightly higher amounts of phosphorus. Alternatively, you can improve the soil by adding organic materials like compost, worm castings, and manure. Experienced gardeners often supplement with water-soluble fertilizers containing phosphorus 1-2 times when the flower buds start to appear. This helps the flowers develop better, grow larger, and bloom longer. Fertilizers can come in various forms, but liquid or powdered forms work best for Blue rock bindweed. Regardless of the form, remember to dilute the fertilizer and apply it while watering your Blue rock bindweed.

How do I give nutrients to my Blue rock bindweed?

To ensure proper fertilization for your Blue rock bindweed, it's important to follow specific directions for the type of fertilizer you're using. Start by researching how to effectively use it for your specific plant. The key is to avoid over-fertilization, so figuring out the right amount to use is crucial. A general guideline is to consider the age or diameter of the tree. Typically, you can estimate using one-tenth of a pound of fertilizer per year or per inch of trunk, with a maximum of one pound. To apply granular fertilizers or organic options like blood meal, simply sprinkle the substance around the tree's base, extending all the way to the drip line (the area beneath the outermost branches). Ensure that the fertilizer doesn't come into direct contact with the trunk. Over time, the granules will break down and seep into the soil, where the roots can absorb them. After fertilizing, spread a one-inch layer of compost around the tree's base and thoroughly water.

🪴 Pot & Repot 2-3 years

To support the growth of blue rock bindweed, it should be repotted every 2 to 3 years in the spring. When repotting, choose a wider pot to allow room for its spreading roots. Ensure consistent watering and place the plant in bright, indirect light. Avoid using deep pots, as shallow pots promote healthier root expansion.

Suggested frequency: 2-3 years
✂️ Pruning

Blue rock bindweed is known for its cascading blue flowers and vigorous growth. To encourage blooming and control its size, it's best to prune the plant in early spring. Regular pruning helps prevent the plant from becoming leggy, encourages fuller growth, and enhances flowering. It's important to use clean tools during pruning to prevent the spread of disease. Be sure to follow recommended pruning techniques to maintain optimal plant health.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Vine
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Convolvulus
Family
Convolvulaceae
Hardiness Zone
7-9
Mature Height
49 cm
Mature Spread
49 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Lavender
Flower Size
2.54 cm to 5.08 cm
Bloom Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
Mid summer, Late summer

Tags (6)

Common Names (3)

en African bindweed
en Ground Blue-convolvulus
en Blue Rock Bindweed