Convolvulus prostratus Seeds | Prostrate Bindweed
LATIN NAME: Convolvulus prostratus
COMMON NAME: Prostrate Bindweed
Plant Profile
Prostrate Bindweed (Convolvulus prostratus) is a perennial. On dry, stony slopes of the Mediterranean and near east, prostrate bindweed grows as a low, mat-forming perennial with small, narrow, grey-green leaves along trailing stems and small, funnel-shaped, pink-and-white flowers that open through warm months. It spreads into a neat, dense mat, and it stands heat, drought and poor, stony soils well. Choose full sun and deep, fertile ground for this plant. Not many plants ask so little and repay so much.
Science & Biotechnology
Seed science, comparative botany and horticultural selection all touch on Convolvulus prostratus, a representative of the Convolvulus group with clear practical value. Plant has also been studied in pharmacology and natural product research, since its traditional uses continue to guide modern studies of its compounds and their effects. For practical purposes the message is encouraging: generations of cultivation have produced plants of predictable, well-mannered garden character.
Uses & Benefits
Prostrate Bindweed works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Ecologically, shankhpushpi is a generous plant of dry ground. Its pretty funnel-shaped flowers feed bees and other pollinators, and its low, creeping growth covers and holds soil in dry, open places where it grows. Its economic value is real and significant. Thereafter it wants only the ordinary attentions any garden plant receives.
Bindweeds include medicinal relatives like scammony, once a famous strong laxative resin; garden convolvulus are grown for their silvery foliage and morning blooms.
Growing from Seed
Raising Prostrate Bindweed from seed is straightforward. A simple routine works well: sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, maintain even moisture, and provide full sun. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
Given the right start, Prostrate Bindweed is a long-term garden companion. From then on, routine care is all that is required.
Related Reading
If Prostrate Bindweed appeals to you, these related plants are worth a look: