Convolvulus cneorum aka Silverbush

Convolvulus cneorum is a small shrub known as silverbush. It is evergreen, keeping its leaves all year. Other names are bush morning glory and shrubby bindweed. It belongs to Convolvulaceae, the bindweed family. It comes from the central Mediterranean region. It forms a dense, low mound, not a climbing vine. Gardeners grow it for its pale leaves and flowers.

Plants often reach about 2 feet [0.61 metres] tall. They spread about 3 feet [0.91 metres] wide. RHS size bands allow up to 3.3 feet [1 metre] each way. Plants take five to ten years to reach full size. The narrow leaves range from lance-shaped to oblong. Fine, silky hairs give them their pale hue. This ranges from silver-green to silver-grey. The leaves add interest beyond the main flower season.

Pink buds open into white flowers shaped like funnels. Each has a yellow throat. Each bloom measures about 1.5 inches across. Flowers bloom from late spring into summer. Missouri Botanical Garden gives a bloom time of June to August. The white blooms stand out against the silvery leaves. This low shrub suits borders, rock gardens, and gravel gardens. It also grows in pots on patios and in courtyards. Its small, dense form suits gardens with a Mediterranean style.

Give it full sun and a site sheltered from harsh weather. Some shade after noon helps where summers are hot. Soil must drain well, with low to moderate levels of nutrients. Chalk, loam, and sand can all suit this plant. It grows in acid, neutral, or alkaline soil. Once settled in, plants cope with drought and dry soil. Water plants in pots well while they grow. Give them less water in winter. RHS advises using gritty, peat-free compost with a loam base. Its UK hardiness rating is H4. Its USDA zones are 8–10.

In colder places, gardeners grow silverbush as an annual. Plants in pots can spend winter indoors in a sunny spot. Grow new plants from seeds or semi-hardwood cuttings. These cuttings use stems that have begun to turn woody. The plant needs little care. Few pests or diseases cause serious problems. Watch indoor plants for aphids and spider mites in winter. Honey fungus can occur, though RHS calls it rare.