- Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis)
- Widespread and very common perennial of disturbed ground. Twists around other
plants to assist its progress. Long-stalked, 20 to 50mm long leaves are
arrow-shaped. The white-striped pink flowers are 15 to 30mm across and appear
June to September. Creeping or climbing, up to 2 to 3 m
Twists around other plants to assist its progress. Long-stalked, 20 50mm long
leaves are arrow-shaped. The white-striped pink flowers are 15 - 30 mm across
and appear June - September. Creeping or climbing, up to 23m. Hedgerows, fields,
waste places, fences , it can be a troublesome weed of agriculture. Perennial
Climber growing to 2m. It is hardy to zone 5. It is in flower from June to
September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The scented flowers are
hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by Bees and
flies. The plant is self-fertile. The plant has been used as a flavouring in a
liqueur called 'Noyeau'[. Prefers a lighter basic soi] of low to medium
fertility.
Bindweed is a very deep-rooting plant with a vigorous root system that extends
to a considerable distance and is very hard to eradicate from the soil. Even a
small piece of the root will grow into a new plant if it is left in the ground.
Once established this plant soon becomes a pernicious weed. It is a climbing
plant that supports itself by twining around any support it can find and can
soon swamp and strangle other plants
The flowers close at night and also during rainy weather. Although visited by
numerous insects, the flowers seldom set fertile seed. On sunny days the flowers
diffuse a scent of heliotrope