Evolvulus alsinoides aka Dwarf Morning Glory

Evolvulus alsinoides also goes by slender dwarf morning glory. It belongs to Convolvulaceae, the morning glory family. This small herb grows in tropical and subtropical regions. Sources differ on where it first grew. Kew gives its native range as the tropics and subtropics. Useful Tropical Plants suggests the tropical and subtropical Americas. NC State includes the southern and southwestern United States. It grows in dry grassland and on rocky sites. It also grows in coastal scrub and disturbed ground.

Plants may live as annuals or perennials: one year or more. Garden height is about 1–1.3 feet [0.3–0.4 metres], often less. Stems can reach 2.3 feet [0.7 metres] long. That measures stem length, not stated height or spread. Deep roots support many thin stems that branch. These creep on the ground or stand upright. Older stems may turn a bit woody. Long silver hairs coat the stems for a woolly look. Dense branches can form a tangled mass.

The small, simple leaves grow in turn along the stems. Their shapes range from oval to narrow or oblong. They have smooth edges, but their tip shapes vary. Hairs coat the green leaves, which can look dusty. Blue flowers bloom from early spring through fall. Some plants have white blooms. Each wheel-shaped flower spans about a third of an inch. Round petals may have a notch at the tip. Thin flower stalks grow from leaf axils, where leaves meet stems. Smooth, round seed cases, called capsules, follow the flowers. Each opens through four valves and holds one to four seeds. The oval seeds are tan or brown.

Give this plant full sun and soil that drains well. NC State lists sandy soils and shallow, rocky soils as suitable. It also says plants cope with some dry spells. Wild plants often grow on limestone in dry, open sites. Seeds sprout as the rainy season starts. Plants can start to bloom about eight weeks later. Sources describe tropical or subtropical conditions. They give no hardiness-zone limits. They list seed as the way to grow new plants.

The low, spreading form suits borders, rock walls, and hanging baskets. Its long bloom season adds garden value with little care. Growth can look untidy, and plants may become weedy. NC State reports no known insect pests or diseases. People have used it to feed livestock and in folk medicine. Past uses include treating bowel problems, fever, and skin sores. These reports show past uses, not proven effects. People have also burned leaves to scent homes. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known food uses or hazards. This does not prove it safe for people or pets.