Overview
Calystegia pellita (Ledeb.) G. Don, also known as the creeping false bindweed or morning glory, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the family Convolvulaceae. The plant is native to Eastern Asia, including Russia, Japan, and Korea, but has been introduced to North America, Europe, and other parts of Asia.
Appearance
The plant has a slender stem that is green or red in color, and grows up to 1 meter in length. The leaves are shaped like a heart or an arrow, and are usually 2-7 cm long and 1-6 cm broad. The plant produces small white or pink funnel-shaped flowers that bloom from June to October. The flowers are 2-3 cm in diameter, and are borne on a long stalk that emerges from the leaf axil.
Uses
Calystegia pellita has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat various ailments, including throat infections, asthma, and gonorrhea. The plant contains several bioactive compounds like alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids that exhibit various pharmacological properties such as antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. The plant extract has also been found to have anti-tumor and anti-diabetic effects.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Calystegia pellita is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its attractive foliage and flowers. The plant is easy to grow and maintain, and can be used to cover walls, trellises, and fences.
However, it is important to note that the plant is considered invasive and can be harmful to native plants and ecosystems if not managed properly.
Light Requirements
Calystegia pellita (Ledeb.) G. Don typically grow well in full sun, although they can also survive in partial shade. They require a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering. Without enough light, the plant might become leggy and floppy.
Temperature Requirements
Calystegia pellita (Ledeb.) G. Don grows best under warm temperature conditions, with an average temperature range of 16-27 °C. The plant cannot tolerate frost, so if grown in a colder region, it will require protection from the cold in winter.
Soil Requirements
Calystegia pellita (Ledeb.) G. Don grows well in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6-7.5. The soil must not be waterlogged, as this will cause root rot and stunted growth. The addition of organic matter to the soil in the form of compost or well-rotted manure can improve soil fertility and structure, resulting in an increase in plant health and vigor.
Cultivation Methods
Calystegia pellita (Ledeb.) G. Don is a hardy perennial plant that thrives in moist, well-draining soils and full to partial sun exposure. The plant can be propagated by dividing the roots or through seed sowing. If you are planting through seeds, sow them in early spring or fall directly into the soil, just below the surface. Cover with a layer of compost or mulch to protect the seeds from birds.Watering Needs
Calystegia pellita (Ledeb.) G. Don requires regular watering to maintain its growth and health. The plant prefers moist soils, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce the frequency during the dormant season. If the top layer of soil feels dry, it's time to water the plant.Fertilization
Calystegia pellita (Ledeb.) G. Don does not require frequent fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can help promote healthy growth and blooming. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring when the plant begins to grow. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.Pruning
Calystegia pellita (Ledeb.) G. Don does not require drastic pruning but occasional pruning can help tidy up the plant and encourage new growth. In late fall or early winter, trim back any dead or damaged stems to the ground. In spring, prune the plant back to half its height to encourage bushier growth and more flowering. Once the plant has finished blooming, cut back the flower stalks to the basal foliage.Propagation methods of Calystegia pellita (Ledeb.) G. Don
Calystegia pellita (Ledeb.) G. Don, commonly known as small bindweed, is a perennial vine that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. This plant can be propagated through various methods that include:
Seed propagation
Small bindweed can be propagated through seeds. After the plant has flowered and produced seeds, the seeds can be collected and sown in spring or fall. They should be planted in soil that is well-draining and fertile. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 centimeters, and the soil should be kept moist until germination occurs. The seedlings can be transplanted when they have developed their first two true leaves.
Vegetative propagation
Small bindweed can also be propagated through vegetative means such as stem cuttings. In summer, take stem cuttings that have three to four nodes and remove their lower leaves. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil that is kept moist. After few weeks, they will develop roots and can be transplanted to their final location.
Division propagation
Small bindweed can also be propagated through division. In spring or fall, dig up the plant and carefully separate the root clumps using a sharp knife or pruning shears. Each section should have a substantial amount of root and shoots. Transplant each section into a pre-dug hole, and water them thoroughly to reduce transplant shock.
Propagation of Calystegia pellita (Ledeb.) G. Don is a straightforward process, and with adequate care and attention, the plant can be grown successfully.
Disease Management
Calystegia pellita is susceptible to various diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause circular brown spots on the foliage. If left unchecked, it can cause defoliation. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Apply a copper-based fungicide to prevent further spread.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can stunt the growth of the plant if left unchecked. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. Apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can cause the roots to rot, leading to wilting and death of the plant. To manage root rot, it is important to avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage. Fungicides may help reduce the spread of the disease, but prevention is key.
Pest Management
Calystegia pellita can also be affected by various pests, such as spider mites, aphids, and thrips.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and curling of leaves. To manage spider mites, regularly spray the plant with water to increase humidity. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can cluster on the stems and leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage aphids, remove them manually or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that can cause silvery patterns on the leaves and petals. They can also cause deformation of the plant. To manage thrips, prune heavily infected areas and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
