SafePlants

Calystegia sepium: An In-Depth Look

Calystegia sepium, commonly known as hedge bindweed, false bindweed, or morning glory, is a perennial climber with both striking flowers and a reputation as a serious weed.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is a vine and may grow to 10 feet (3 meters), potentially creating an entanglement hazard for small animals.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is a fast-growing vine, which children might be tempted to play with, potentially leading to entanglement.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br.
• Family: Convolvulaceae (Bindweed or Morning Glory Family)
• Synonyms: Calystegia sepium ssp. americana, Calystegia sepium ssp. angulata, Convolvulus sepium
• Subspecies: Calystegia sepium ssp. sepium (L.) R. Br., Calystegia sepium subsp. limnophila, Calystegia sepium subsp. angulata
• Common Names: Hedge Bindweed, Hedge False Bindweed, Bellbine, Rutland Beauty, Wild Morning Glory, Hedgebell, Bear Bind, Devil's Guts, Lady's-nightcap, Greater Bindweed, Wild Morning Glory, Old Man's Night Cap

Distribution and Habitat

• Calystegia sepium is found across the globe in temperate regions.
• Commonly found in ditches, fencelines, and roadsides.
• In some locations, it is considered exotic and invasive.

Ecological Role

• In some areas, Calystegia sepium is considered a serious and invasive weed.
• It can be very invasive in some locations, while in others, like Florida, it is considered exotic.

Morphological Characteristics

• A perennial climber growing to 3 meters (9ft 10in) at a fast rate.
• Large rhizomatous root systems.
• Flowers are 2 1/2- to 3-inch (6.3 - 7.6 cm) in size.
• Flowers are funnel-shaped and white to pinkish in color.
• Bindweed vines usually have large showy flowers with a triangular outline.

Growth Habits

• Perennial
• Forb/herb
• Vine

Additional Information

• It is hardy to zone (UK) 4.
• It flowers from July to September.