What is Calystegia sepium or Bindweed?
Calystegia sepiumKnown as Greater bindweed, campanilla o ivy bellflowerIs a perennial herbaceous and climbing plant family convolvulaceaeIt is widely valued for its ability to cover walls, fences, and wetlands, although it can also be considered invasive in certain environments.
It is characterized by long stems and thin, which can reach up to 5 meters in length, allowing it to climb over other plants and structures. leaves They are alternate, heart-shaped or sagittate, large and with entire or slightly sinuous edges, providing a dense green cover during the growing season.
The flowers They are one of their main attractions: large, solitary, bell- or funnel-shaped, white or pink, and formed by five fused petals. The calyx is protected by two heart-shaped bracts that partially cover the sepals. These flowers appear mainly in spring and summer, extending their bloom into early fall.
Origin and distributionCalystegia sepium is native to Europe, California, and parts of the Pacific Rim. Its distribution has expanded throughout the Northern Hemisphere, and it can be found in grassy areas, riverbanks, ditches, crop margins, and even in dumps, where moisture and light conditions are adequate.
Its ease of propagation and ability to adapt to different environments have made it a common plant in gardens, fields, and wild areas, especially in nitrogen-rich, well-lit soils.
Botanical characteristics and taxonomy
- Scientific name: Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. (also known as Convolvulus sepium L.)
- Family: convolvulaceae
- Other names: Bellflower, greater bindweed, ivy bell, tree rope, bell of the Virgin, among others according to the regions and languages.
- Stem: Climber, hairless, up to 5 meters, with white latex when broken.
- Sheets: Alternate, heart-shaped or sagittate, up to 7 cm, with a long petiole up to 4 cm.
- Flowers: Solitary, axillary, long peduncle, corolla 3 to 7 cm, white or pink, five petals joined in a bell or funnel.
- Fruit: Unilocular capsule with 4 seeds inside.
- Level: It can reach 1,7 meters in optimal conditions, although its stems climb up to 5 m.
- Seed weight: Approximately 27,3 mg.
Habitat and ecology
Calystegia of hedges It is preferably found in humid areas, such as banks of rivers and streams, ditches, edges of agricultural fields and areas with well-lit and, generally, nitrified soils. It prefers wet soils, with a mild acidity and rich in nutrients. It can grow from sea level to approximately 700 m above sea level and tolerates some shade, although it prefers bright exposure.
The plant is typical of plant communities of the order Convolvuletalia sepium, within the class Artemisietea vulgaris, where it shares habitat with species such as Angelica sylvestris, Epilobium hirsutum o Eupatorium cannabinumPlant development is closely linked to water availability, which is why it is common in moist soils, streambanks, and soils altered by human activity.
Growing and caring for Calystegia sepium
Exhibition and location
The greater bindweed prefers a sunny location, although it appreciates some protection during the middle of the day to avoid intense sunlight, which can damage the leaves. It tolerates low temperatures, showing resistance to cold and moderate frost.
Soil type
It is not demanding in terms of soil type, provided drainage is adequate. It thrives in fertile, slightly moist, and slightly acidic soils. Compact and poorly drained soils can hinder its development and increase the risk of rot.
Irrigation
Watering should be abundant before the first flowering; then keep the substrate slightly moist but avoid waterlogging. The frequency depends on environmental conditions, requiring more water during warmer periods and less during rainy periods.
Pruning and growth control
It is important prune in late winter to control its growth, as it can quickly become invasive if it finds optimal conditions. Removing dry, weak, or diseased branches and limiting its spread will help maintain its appearance and prevent it from colonizing unwanted areas.
Subscriber
It does not require specific subscribers, although it will appreciate a contribution of organic matter annual, especially if grown in pots or on poor soils. A balanced fertilizer in spring can stimulate flowering.
Propagation
- Rhizome divisionIn autumn or spring, divide the underground rhizome and plant the fragments directly in their final location.
- Seeds: Sow seeds in spring, ensuring a certain amount of moisture in the substrate.
Propagation by rhizomes is particularly effective and usually produces vigorous plants that quickly cover the available space.
Flowering of Calystegia sepium
La flowering It extends from spring to early autumn, with its peak bloom between June and September. The flowers develop mainly in the leaf axils and are striking for their size and bell-like shape. They are solitary and usually open during the day, attracting numerous pollinating insects.
Pollination is carried out primarily by bees and other insects, promoting the perpetuation of the species and its expansion into new areas. After flowering, the fruit capsules ripen and release the seeds, contributing to the local dispersal of the plant.
Ornamental and landscaping uses
- Covering walls, fences and pergolas: Thanks to its rapid growth and dense foliage.
- Pots for terraces and balconies: It can be grown in large containers, allowing better control of its development.
- Wild or natural areas: In low-maintenance gardens or for the restoration of riparian environments.
Due to its invasive nature, it is important to control its spread through regular pruning and delimiting the planting area.
Invasive potential and control
La Calystegia of hedges It can become an invasive species in humid and fertile environments, displacing native vegetation and hindering the growth of other plants. For its control, the following are recommended:
- manual removal: Pull out young shoots by the roots.
- Constant pruning: Prevent excessive flowering and limit its spread.
- Anti-weed nets in planters or agricultural areas where it is desired to limit their proliferation.
In agricultural areas or hedges, it is also common to resort to periodic tilling of the soil to control their presence.
Care against pests and diseases
The Bindweed, although hardy, can be attacked by insects such as aphids, caterpillars and mitesThese can weaken young shoots and affect flowering. In cases of infestation, organic preparations such as potassium soap or neem oil can be used. In severe cases, broad-spectrum insecticides may be necessary, but always be environmentally friendly.
Excess humidity favors the appearance of fungi and rot, so good drainage and controlled irrigation are essential to avoid phytosanitary problems.
Properties and medicinal uses of Calystegia sepium
Since ancient times, Calystegia sepium has been used in traditional medicine. from various European cultures. Notable medicinal uses include:
- Febrifuge: Helps reduce fever.
- Cholagogue: Promotes bile evacuation.
- Diuretic: It helps eliminate fluids from the body.
- Purgative/laxative: Used, mainly as the rhizome, to treat acute constipation. The dosage should be managed carefully to avoid adverse effects.
- Demulcent: Soothes the mucosa in cases of irritation.
- Poultices: The leaves applied to bruised lesions have traditionally served to accelerate recovery.
Today therapeutic benefit It is recognized that its medicinal use is moderate, and should only be done under supervision, as high doses can be toxic. In all cases, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before using remedies with this plant.
Nutritional properties
Although its direct nutritional value is low, some components present in its rhizome and leaves have historically been used as a supplement in traditional subsistence diets. Its nutritional benefits are considered insignificant compared to other edible plant species.
Traditional uses and popular beliefs
The Bindweed has been associated with numerous popular beliefs and legends Over time, it has been attributed healing and magical properties in occult botany, such as:
- If the leaves are applied to bruised wounds and then leave them in a humid place, this would speed up recovery.
- An infusion of leaves with wine was considered a "love potion" to strengthen harmony in couples.
- El rhizome It was associated with remedies for vision problems.
- In astrological symbology, it is linked to planets such as Jupiter and the Sun.
Dispersal and reproduction strategies
La Calystegia of hedges It is dispersed mainly by two mechanisms:
- Local dispersal by rhizomesUnderground rhizomes allow for efficient and rapid colonization of new areas.
- Seed dispersal: Fruit capsules release seeds that can be transported by external agents (wind, water, animals) beyond 30 centimeters, ensuring the permanence of the species in the environment.
Ecological relationships and biodiversity
In the ecosystems where it is present, the Greater Bindweed constitutes shelter and food source for numerous insects, especially pollinators like bees. It contributes to the natural balance of the environment and promotes biodiversity by providing shelter and resources where other plants may not thrive as effectively.
In agricultural settings, its uncontrolled growth can be harmful, so it is important to maintain management practices to ensure it does not compete excessively with crops.
Taxonomic classification
- Domain: eukarya
- Supergroup: Archaeplastida
- Phylum: Chloroplastida
- Division: Streptophyta
- Subdivision: Spermatophytina
- Class: Magnoliopside
- Order: solanales
- Family: convolvulaceae
- Gender: Calystegia
Morphology and glossary of terms
- Glabrous/Glabrous: No hair.
- Sagittate: Arrow-shaped (referring to the leaf).
- Petiole: Stalk that joins the blade of a leaf to the stem.
- Bract: Leafy organ that accompanies the flower.
- Corolla: Set of petals of a flower.
- Stamen: Male organ of the flower.
- Gyneceous: Set of female organs of the flower.
- Unilocular: Structure with a single internal cavity.
- Seated: Sessile, without tail.
- Climber: Plant that climbs supports.
Photographs of Calystegia sepium
Diversity and related species
Within the genus Calystegia There are around 25 species, the best known being:
- Calystegia sepium (Worth bindweed)
- Calystegia silvatica (Wood Bindweed)
- Calystegia japonica
- Calystegia occidentalis
- Calystegia purpurata
- Calystegia soldanella (sea bell, coastal dune creeping plant)
Each of these species has particular adaptations to their habitats, highlighting the ability of the Calystegia soldanella to thrive in sandy, saline, coastal soils.
Smart monitoring and technological gardening
Calystegia sepium care can be enhanced by intelligent monitoring of parameters such as soil moisture, light, ambient humidity and temperature, using connected sensors. These technologies allow for maintaining optimal conditions for plant development and detecting water stress, insufficient light, or potential disease, making cultivation more efficient and sustainable.
Bibliography and recommended sources
- Midolo G., Herben T., Axmanová I., Marcenò C., Pätsch R., Bruelheide H., Chytrý M.: «Disturbance indicator values for European plants». Global Ecology and Biogeography.
- Chytrý M., Tichý L., Hennekens SM, Knollová I., Janssen JAM, Rodwell JS, Schaminée JHJ: «EUNIS Habitat Classification: expert system, characteristic species combinations and distribution maps of European habitats». Applied Vegetation Science.
- Lososová Z., Axmanová I., Chytrý M., Midolo G., Abdulhak S., Karger DN, Renaud J., Van Es J., Vittoz P., Thuiller W.: «Seed dispersal distance classes and dispersal modes for the European flora». Global Ecology and Biogeography.
- S. Silvestre, MJ Gallego & A. Quintanar: Convolvulaceae. in Flora Iberica vol. XI.
- S. Silvestre: Calystegia R. Br. in Flora iberica vol. XI.