Plant : Convolvulus
Convolvulus spp.
Convolvulus, part of the bindweed family, includes annuals, herbaceous perennials, and shrubs with saucer- or funnel-shaped blooms. The flowers are vibrant but short-lived—often only opening for a day—but are produced continuously from early summer into autumn on climbers, trailers, and low-growing forms.
Plant Care Essentials:
Light Requirements
Full sun
Water Scheduling
Moderate
Growth Habit
Fast
Temperature
Hardy to tender depending on species
Plant Profile:
- Scientific Name:
- Convolvulus spp.
- Family:
- Convolvulaceae
- Plant Type:
- Ornamental
- Origin:
- Mediterranean and temperate regions worldwide
- Size:
- 30cm to 90cm
- Growth Rate:
- Fast
- Light Requirements:
- Full sun
- Watering Needs:
- Moderate
- Temperature Tolerance:
- Hardy to tender depending on species
- Maintenance:
- Moderate
- Flower Color:
- Blue, white, pink, pale pink, yellow-throated, variegated
- Flowering Season:
- Early summer through autumn
- Drought Tolerant:
- No
- Tropical:
- No
- Indoor:
- No
- Has Fruits:
- Yes
- Edible Fruit:
- No
- Poisonous to Pets:
- No
Care Instructions:
Convolvulus plants offer a range of forms: annual C. tricolor features bright blue petal faces with yellow throats; shrub forms like C. cneonum produce white blooms from pink buds; and trailing C. althaeoides spills silvery foliage over banks with pastel flowers. Fast-growing and versatile, they perform across borders, containers, and coastal or poor-soil environments.
Light
Give them full sun for best bloom production. Sheltered positions help prevent cold winds from damaging the delicate flowers and foliage.
Water
Water moderately, especially during hot, dry spells. Established plants tolerate some drought but benefit from regular moisture to sustain flowering.
Soil
Thrives in well-drained, even poor soils. Great choice for dry banks or rockeries where richer plants struggle.
Temperature
Hardy species survive in cooler climates; tender shrubs may require protection in winter or overwintering indoors.
Humidity
Adaptable to varied humidity, but good airflow helps prevent fungal issues in dense plantings.
Fertilizer
Not heavy feeders. A light top dressing of compost or balanced feed in early summer supports continuous blooms.
Best Placement Ideas
- Rock gardens or dry sunny banks
- Climbing or trailing over walls, arches, or trellises
- Mixed into borders for late-season color
- Containers and window boxes with complementary late-season bloomers
Common Issues
- Flowers are very short-lived—deadhead frequently for continuous display
- Can become patchy if allowed to flop or run unchecked
- Shrub species may be winter tender in cooler zones
- Mild toxicity—keep away from children and pets
Things to Watch Out For
- Remove faded flowers diligently to encourage more buds
- Provide support for climbing forms to avoid tangling
- Cut back old stems in autumn or spring for clean re-growth
- Avoid overwatering, especially in winter dormant periods
Propagation Tips
Sow annual seeds under glass in early spring or mid-spring directly in place. Take heel cuttings of perennial and shrubby species in summer and overwinter under cover. Shrub forms generally root reliably but slowly.
Maintenance Tips
Regular deadheading maximizes bloom duration. Prune back trailing or climbing types after frost, and tidy up grey wilted foliage. Overwinter tender types indoors or apply mulch in climate zones with harsh winters.
Did You Know?
Did you know Convolvulus althaeoides, a prostrate perennial, is perfect for dry sunny banks and rock gardens? It quickly covers poor soil with delicate pale-pink blooms while combining beautifully with spring-flowering groundcovers like aubrieta.
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