How to Grow Convolvulus

Convolvulus

Convolvulus spp.

flower

Convolvulus refers to a genus of climbing vines and trailing plants known for their trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, white, blue, and purple. These fast-growing ornamentals are popular for trellises, hanging baskets, and ground cover. Many species are easy to grow and prolific bloomers throughout the growing season.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but blooms better in full sun

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Water: Moderate watering; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, most species are drought-tolerant. Avoid waterlogging.

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Spacing: 12-18 inches for vining varieties; 6-12 inches for dwarf types inches

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Days to maturity: 30-60 days to first flowers from transplant

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Planting depth: Surface sow seeds or plant transplants at same depth as container; lightly press seeds into soil

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy to sandy soil

pH: 6.0-7.0

Amendments:

Compost or aged manure for organic matter Sand or perlite for drainage

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Most species thrive in zones 5-10; some tender varieties in zones 9-11

3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b

Growth Stages

Germination & Seedling

7-14 days

Tiny seedlings with cotyledons emerge; delicate heart-shaped leaves develop

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Provide bright, indirect light. Thin seedlings once true leaves appear.

Vegetative Growth

3-4 weeks

Rapid vine or trailing growth with increasingly vigorous stems and deeper green foliage

Provide support structure (trellis, stakes) early. Water regularly during dry spells. Apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.

Flowering

6-12 weeks (may extend until frost)

Abundant trumpet-shaped flowers open along stems in morning, often closing by afternoon. Colors range from pink, white, blue, purple, and bi-colors.

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Maintain consistent moisture. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to promote flowers over foliage.

Peak Bloom & Maintenance

4-8 weeks or until frost

Plants in full flower production with steady bloom cycles throughout the season

Continue deadheading. Monitor for pests and diseases. Pinch back overly long vines to maintain shape. Water during drought.

Decline & Frost Sensitivity

Varies by region and species

Growth slows as temperatures drop; frost kills tender varieties; hardy perennial types die back to roots

Tender annuals can be brought indoors before first frost. Hardy perennials will regenerate in spring. Remove dead foliage.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Marigolds Nasturtiums Zinnias Sunflowers Salvia Petunias Lavender

Avoid planting near:

Dense shade-producing trees Other aggressive vines that compete for space

Common Pests

Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe. Increase humidity around plants.
Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Remove heavily infested leaves.
Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
and
Handpick; use beer traps or copper barriers. Remove leaf litter where they hide.
Improve air circulation. Spray with baking soda solution (1 tbsp per gallon water) or fungicidal sulfur.

Uses

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Edible Flowers

Culinary

The flowers of some Convolvulus species are edible and can be used as decorative garnishes in salads or desserts. They have a slightly sweet, mild flavor. [source]

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Traditional herbal use

Medicinal

Certain Convolvulus species have been used in traditional medicine as mild laxatives and for digestive support, though modern use is limited and scientific evidence is sparse. [source]

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Fresh floral arrangements

Household

Convolvulus flowers are excellent for cutting and last several days in water. They add delicate, colorful texture to bouquets and table arrangements. [source]

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Pressed flowers & crafts

Craft

The delicate trumpet flowers press beautifully and can be used in pressed flower art, bookmarks, and botanical craft projects. [source]

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Pollinator support

Wildlife

Convolvulus flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the growing season, making them valuable for supporting pollinator populations. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Convolvulus flowers are primarily ornamental and harvested for fresh arrangements. Cut stems in early morning when flowers are open. Deadhead regularly to promote continuous flowering. For seed collection (if desired), allow some flowers to set seed pods; harvest when pods dry and turn brown, typically in late summer.

Fun Facts

🌱 Convolvulus flowers are often called 'morning glories' in common usage, though they belong to the same family (Convolvulaceae) as true morning glories and share similar trumpet-shaped blooms.
🌱 Many Convolvulus species flowers open in the morning and close by afternoon, a behavior called nyctinasty, which helps protect the delicate petals from sun damage and water loss.
🌱 Convolvulus arvensis (field bindweed) is considered a noxious weed in many regions due to its aggressive spreading ability via deep taproots and seeds, making it a challenge for farmers and gardeners.

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