Convolvulus scammonia
Care, watering, light and tips for Convolvulus scammonia on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Convolvulaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Convolvulus scammonia
Convolvulus scammonia, commonly known as scammony bindweed, is a perennial climbing plant from the Convolvulaceae family, historically valued for its medicinal properties. It features slender, twining stems with sagittate leaves and funnel-shaped white or pink flowers. It is ideal for covering pergolas, walls, or fences in Mediterranean or rustic gardens, adding a wild and charming touch.
Native range
Eastern Mediterranean region, from Greece to the Caucasus
Care tips
It prefers full sun exposure for abundant flowering, although it tolerates partial shade in very hot climates. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, and more frequent in summer. It requires well-drained, sandy or slightly clayey soil, and is not demanding in nutrients. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; it's better to err on the side of dryness than wetness.
How to save a dying Convolvulus scammonia
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown leaves, general wilting, soft and blackened stems from the base.
- First aid
- Check drainage. If waterlogged, remove plant, trim rotten roots, and repot in dry substrate. Isolate to prevent spread.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its demise. Also lack of light or nutrient-poor soil.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly at the first signs of rot. Prune affected parts and optimize its environment.