Plant guide

Field bindweed.

Convolvulus arvensis

Pronounced kon-VOL-vyoo-lus ar-VEN-sis

Also known as Bindweed, Common Bindweed, Creeping Jenny, European Bindweed, European morning glory, Field Bindweed, Field Morning Glory

Field bindweed is a persistent perennial vine that is often considered a troublesome weed in gardens. It produces lovely trumpet shaped flowers that range from white to soft pink. You will find it spreads aggressively through deep underground rhizomes.

At a glance

Care level: Easy
Plant type: Perennial vine
Light: Full sun
Indoor light: Direct sun
Water: Every 7 to 14 days
Mature size: 3 to 6 feet long
Growth rate: Fast

Care

This plant is extremely hardy and requires very little attention to thrive. Watch for it spreading into areas where you do not want it, as it can quickly overtake other plants. Pulling it by hand is difficult because any root fragments left behind will sprout again.

Watering: It is quite drought tolerant once established and only needs water during prolonged dry spells.
Feeding: Fertilizing is generally unnecessary as this plant thrives in poor soil conditions.
Pruning: Cut back stems regularly if you are trying to contain its spread.
Repotting: If grown in a container, move it to a larger pot only when the roots become severely crowded.
Soil: Well draining soil
Soil pH: 6.0 to 8.0

Safety

Pets: This plant is considered mildly toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.

How to identify it

Arrowhead shaped green leaves
Trumpet shaped white or pink flowers
Twining stems that climb nearby structures
Deep and extensive root system

Science

Family: Convolvulaceae
Genus: Convolvulus
Order: Solanales
Class: Magnoliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Also in

Plants toxic to cats and dogs

Is your field bindweed looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.