Bindweed
Convolvulus verecundus
plants -description">Full sun; lean, sandy or gravelly soils; drought tolerant; ideal for rock gardens and coastal banks.
Description
Convolvulus verecundus is a low, mat-forming herbaceous perennial bindweed, typically sprawling or trailing across the ground. It features small, heart-shaped to kidney-shaped leaves that are often hairy, providing a soft, grey-green appearance. In spring and summer, it produces abundant, delicate, funnel-shaped flowers, usually pale pink or white with a darker throat. These showy flowers open in the morning and close by afternoon, attracting pollinators. The plant forms a spreading mat of stems that can cover significant ground, and while it shares the characteristic bindweed flower, its growth habit is less aggressive than some other members of the genus.
Quick Facts
Convolvulus verecundus is a low, mat-forming herbaceous perennial bindweed, prized for its showy pink or white flowers and drought tolerance. It forms a dense groundcover, making it ideal for sunny, free-draining sites.
| Scientific Name | Convolvulus verecundus |
|---|---|
| Height | 5-15 cm (spreading) |
| Spread | Up to 1 m or more |
| Water Needs | Low; free-draining soils |
| Light | Full sun |
| Frost Tolerance | High - tolerant of severe freezes |
| Salt Tolerance | Moderate to high (coastal species) |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
| Soil | Lean, sandy or gravelly, free-draining |
Climate Suitability
Convolvulus verecundus is well-suited to temperate climates, tolerating both moderate frosts and dry summer conditions once established. It thrives in areas with ample sunshine and good air circulation, and its salt tolerance makes it a valuable species for coastal and semi-coastal gardens.
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Suitable |
| Auckland | Suitable |
| Hamilton | Suitable |
| Tauranga | Suitable |
| Rotorua | Suitable |
| Gisborne | Suitable |
| New Plymouth | Suitable |
| Napier | Suitable |
| Whanganui | Suitable |
| Palmerston North | Suitable |
| Wellington | Suitable |
| Nelson | Suitable |
| Christchurch | Suitable |
| Dunedin | Suitable |
| Invercargill | Suitable |
Habitat
Natural Distribution
occurs in natural habitats characteristic of Aotearoa, forming part of distinctive plant communities where site stress and local disturbance shape vegetation patterns. It favours exposed slopes, screes or fellfields with thin, rapidly drained mineral soils, enduring intense radiation, wind and freeze-thaw cycles. On the coast it occupies sunny, wind‑prone sites with sandy or rocky substrates, where salt‑laden air and periodic drought limit competition. These preferences explain its patchy distribution and sensitivity to changes in hydrology, competition and disturbance regimes. Convolvulus verecundus
Conservation Status
Current Threats and Protection
are influenced by land use, browsing and weeds. Protecting intact habitat mosaics, reducing browser pressure, and managing invasive plants sustain recruitment. Where local stands are small or isolated, eco‑sourced augmentation and careful site stewardship help secure long‑term viability. Convolvulus verecundus Populations of
How to Grow
Cultivation Requirements
Provide free‑draining soils and high light appropriate to the species’ natural range. Use gritty, stony mixes and an open aspect with moving air; keep crowns high and dry, especially in winter. Choose warm, sunny sites with shelter from the fiercest onshore winds; avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.
Planting Guide
Best Planting Practices
Plant in the cool, moist months into weed‑free ground. Set plants slightly proud of the surrounding soil, water to settle, and mulch with coarse gravel or woodchips while keeping the stem base clear. Grouping two to three plants replicates natural patterns and improves establishment under local conditions.
Ecological Role
Environmental Benefits
contributes structure and seasonal resources where it grows, providing cover and habitat for invertebrates and, when flowering or fruiting, nectar, pollen or seed for fauna. By tolerating the stresses of its environment, it helps stabilise sites and enrich small‑scale habitat diversity. Convolvulus verecundus
Uses
Traditional and Modern Applications
Ideal for rock and gravel gardens that emulate alpine processes, or for specialised collections. Suited to sunny, maritime gardens with sandy or rocky soils where wind and salt are considerations.
Landscaping Uses
Garden Design Applications
Excellent for rock gardens, alpine collections, and naturalistic plantings. Best used in open, well-drained positions where its distinctive form can be appreciated. Combines well with other native alpine plants and provides year-round structure. Consider placement carefully due to sharp foliage - avoid high-traffic areas. Creates dramatic focal points in contemporary and native-themed garden designs.
Seasonal Care
Year-Round Maintenance
Spring management focuses on removing winter-damaged foliage and assessing drainage. Summer care emphasizes maintaining adequate moisture without waterlogging. Autumn preparation includes reducing irrigation and ensuring good air circulation. Winter protection may require covering in areas subject to excessive moisture. Year-round monitoring ensures early detection of problems and maintenance of optimal growing conditions.
Pruning
Pruning Techniques
Little pruning is required; remove dead or crossing material after flowering and avoid hard renovation cuts. Light tip‑pruning maintains compact form without compromising the plant’s natural character.
How to Grow Bindweed
From Seed
Propagation of Convolvulus verecundus from seed is a reliable method, and it often self-seeds readily in favourable conditions. Collect seeds when the capsules are dry and mature, typically in late summer to autumn. Many bindweed seeds have a hard seed coat that benefits from scarification (gently scratching the surface with sandpaper) or a hot water treatment (pour hot, but not boiling, water over the seeds and let soak for 12-24 hours) to improve germination. Sow pre-treated seeds in spring onto a well-draining seed-raising mix, lightly covering them. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth (around 18-24°C or 65-75°F) in a bright location. Germination can be erratic, taking several weeks. Once seedlings are robust enough, prick them out into individual pots and grow them on in a bright, airy location until ready for planting out.
From Cuttings
Convolvulus verecundus can also be propagated from softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring to mid-summer. Select healthy, non-flowering stems about 10-15 cm long with several nodes. Make a clean cut just below a node, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Insert cuttings into a free-draining rooting medium such as a mix of sand and perlite. Provide high humidity by covering the cuttings with a plastic bag or placing them in a propagation chamber, and ensure consistent moisture in the rooting medium. Keep in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. Rooting typically occurs within 3-6 weeks, after which plants can be potted up.
General Cultivation
Convolvulus verecundus is a low, mat-forming herbaceous perennial bindweed that thrives in full sun and lean, free-draining soils. It is particularly well-suited to rock gardens, coastal banks, and areas requiring drought-tolerant groundcover. Ideal soils are sandy or gravelly, with good aeration and rapid drainage; heavy, waterlogged conditions should be avoided, especially in winter, as they can lead to root rot. Once established, it is very drought-tolerant and also exhibits good salt tolerance, making it valuable for exposed coastal sites. It is highly tolerant of severe freezes. Plant in the cool, moist months into weed-free ground. Minimal pruning is typically required, mainly to maintain its shape, control spread, or remove any dead or straggly growth.
Pests and Diseases
Common Problems and Solutions
Good siting prevents most problems-sharp drainage and appropriate exposure are key. Crown and root rots arise if winter wet persists; keep crowns elevated and water moving. Protect young plants from browsing where deer, goats or rabbits are present.
Cultural Significance
Ecological and Landscape Importance
As a native New Zealand bindweed, Convolvulus verecundus contributes to the unique biodiversity of its ecosystems. Its mat-forming growth habit plays an important ecological role in stabilizing soil, particularly on coastal banks and open, disturbed ground where it naturally occurs. The showy flowers provide a nectar source for native insects and pollinators. While not traditionally a plant with specific utilitarian uses for Māori, its presence in the landscape contributes to the rich natural heritage of Aotearoa and is appreciated for its delicate beauty in naturalistic plantings.
Bonus Tip
Expert Growing Advice
For a stunning, drought-tolerant groundcover, plant Convolvulus verecundus on sunny banks or in rock gardens with lean, free-draining soil. Its mat-forming habit effectively suppresses weeds, and its abundant, delicate flowers provide continuous seasonal interest with minimal care.
