Low False Bindweed: A Rare Native Ground Cover Worth Protecting
Meet low false bindweed (Calystegia spithamaea spithamaea), a charming native perennial that’s flying under the radar in most gardens. This delicate member of the morning glory family offers a subtle beauty that’s perfect for gardeners seeking authentic native ground cover options. But here’s the catch – this little gem is actually quite rare in some areas, making it both a conservation priority and a special addition to the right garden.
What Exactly Is Low False Bindweed?
Low false bindweed is a native perennial forb that stays true to its name – it’s a low-growing plant that trails along the ground rather than climbing like its more aggressive relatives. You might also see it listed under its synonym Convolvulus spithamaeus in older gardening references. Unlike some bindweeds that gardeners battle against, this native species plays well with others and won’t take over your entire landscape.
As an herbaceous perennial, it dies back to the ground each winter and returns faithfully each spring from its underground root system. The plant produces small, trumpet-shaped white flowers that add a delicate touch to any native plant collection.
Where Does It Call Home?
This native beauty has quite an impressive natural range across the eastern and central United States. You’ll find low false bindweed growing naturally in Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
A Word of Caution: Rarity Matters
Before you rush out to plant low false bindweed, there’s something important you need to know. In New Jersey, this species is listed as Endangered with an S1 rarity status, and it’s also listed in both the Pinelands and Highlands regions. This means it’s extremely rare and vulnerable in the wild.
If you’re lucky enough to live within its native range and want to grow this special plant, please only source it from reputable native plant nurseries that propagate their own stock rather than collecting from wild populations. Never dig plants from the wild – this could harm already struggling populations.
Why Choose Low False Bindweed?
Despite its rarity challenges, there are compelling reasons to consider this native ground cover:
- True native credentials: It’s genuinely native to much of the eastern United States
- Pollinator support: The small white flowers provide nectar for native bees and butterflies
- Low maintenance: Once established, it’s quite drought tolerant
- Ground cover potential: Perfect for naturalizing in appropriate settings
- Conservation value: Growing it helps preserve genetic diversity of this rare species
Growing Conditions and Care
Low false bindweed isn’t particularly fussy about its growing conditions, which makes sense given its wide native range. Here’s what it prefers:
- Sunlight: Partial shade to full sun
- Soil: Well-drained soils of various types
- Water: Drought tolerant once established, but appreciates occasional watering during dry spells
- USDA Zones: Hardy in zones 3-8
Perfect Garden Scenarios
This native ground cover shines in specific landscape situations:
- Native plant gardens focused on regional flora
- Naturalized woodland edges
- Rock gardens with native plants
- Conservation gardens supporting rare species
- Educational landscapes showcasing local biodiversity
Planting and Care Tips
If you’ve sourced your plants responsibly, here’s how to give them the best start:
- Plant in spring after the last frost
- Space plants about 12-18 inches apart for eventual coverage
- Water regularly the first growing season to establish roots
- Once established, it can handle some drought
- The plant spreads via underground rhizomes, so give it room to naturalize
- Very low maintenance – just cut back old growth in late winter
The Bottom Line
Low false bindweed represents something special in the native plant world – a genuinely rare species that gardeners can help conserve while enjoying its quiet beauty. While it may not be the showiest plant in your garden, it offers authentic native character and supports local ecosystems.
Just remember the golden rule: only grow plants that have been responsibly propagated, never collected from wild populations. By choosing ethically sourced low false bindweed, you’re not just adding a unique native to your landscape – you’re participating in its conservation for future generations.
If you can’t find responsibly sourced low false bindweed, consider other native ground covers from your region that can provide similar ecological benefits without the rarity concerns. Your local native plant society can point you toward suitable alternatives that offer the same native plant advantages.
