Calystegia sepium aka Wild Morning Glory

Calystegia sepium, or hedge bindweed, is a climbing wildflower. It is perennial, so it lives for more than two years. It is in the morning glory family, Convolvulaceae. Kew gives its native range as temperate and subtropical regions. These have mild climates or lie near the tropics. Other sources place it in Eurasia, including Britain and Ireland. It also grows across the continental United States and much of Canada. It grows in hedges, at woodland edges, and on banks. It also grows by roads and on disturbed ground.

This vine grows fast and winds around plants and other supports. In gardens, it reaches about 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres] tall. Its spread can exceed 26 feet [8 metres]. Stems grow sideways as well as up. They are round, green to red, and sometimes have fine hairs. The green leaves fall in autumn and feel like leather. Their broad blades form hearts or triangles. They have deep lobes at the base. Leaves grow in turn on each side of the stems. Their paler lower sides may have fine hairs.

White or pale pink flowers bloom through summer. Each has the shape of a trumpet. North Carolina State Extension gives a longer bloom season. It runs from late spring until frost. Flowers measure about 1–3 inches across, with five shallow lobes. Each lasts one day and often shuts around noon. Clouds can keep the blooms open longer. Bracts, the leaf-like parts below each open flower, do not overlap. Small oval seed cases, or capsules, then form. They split and release two to four seeds. The seeds range from dull brown to black.

Hedge bindweed grows in full sun or part shade. It accepts clay, loam, sand, chalk, and rocky soils. It grows in acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. It suits moist ground that drains well but also copes with drought. It copes with poor soil and wet spells too. Sources rate it USDA zones 3–9 and UK hardiness H6. Bees visit its flowers, and moth caterpillars eat its leaves. These traits give it value in sites managed for wildlife.

Its strong growth makes it a poor choice for small gardens. Roots and underground stems spread; pieces left behind can regrow. Seeds also help it reach new ground. It competes hard with nearby plants. It can also use chemicals to curb their growth. Some American states class it as a noxious weed. Pests and diseases rarely cause great harm. PFAF lists cooked roots, stalks, and young shoots as food. But these parts may have a strong laxative effect. This makes eating them regularly unwise. PFAF also lists uses as medicine. These include root preparations that cause strong bowel movements. The stems bend well and can serve as short-lived ties.