Soft Bindweed: An Uncommon Garden Visitor Worth Knowing
Meet soft bindweed (Convolvulus pilosellifolius), a somewhat mysterious member of the morning glory family that’s quietly made its home in parts of the United States. While not as well-known as its flashier cousins, this perennial forb has its own unique story to tell in the world of gardening.
What Exactly Is Soft Bindweed?
Soft bindweed is a non-woody perennial plant that belongs to the diverse Convolvulus genus. As a forb, it lacks the substantial woody tissue you’d find in shrubs or trees, instead maintaining a more herbaceous character. This plant has established itself as a naturalized resident in New York, having originally been introduced from elsewhere but now reproducing on its own in the wild.
Where You’ll Find It
Currently, soft bindweed has been documented growing in New York state, where it has successfully established itself in the local ecosystem. Its limited geographic distribution makes it somewhat of a botanical curiosity for plant enthusiasts.
Should You Grow Soft Bindweed?
Here’s where things get interesting. While soft bindweed isn’t considered invasive or noxious, its status as a non-native plant means it’s not necessarily the first choice for native plant gardens. However, it’s not problematic either, so gardeners interested in unusual plants might find it intriguing.
If you’re passionate about supporting local ecosystems, consider these native alternatives that offer similar appeal:
- Wild morning glory (Calystegia sepium) – a native climbing vine with showy white flowers
- Hedge bindweed (Calystegia sepium) – another native option with attractive blooms
- Native wildflowers specific to your region that provide better wildlife support
Growing Conditions and Care
Information specifically about soft bindweed’s cultivation requirements is quite limited, which reflects its uncommon status in gardens. Based on its classification as a hardy perennial forb and its successful naturalization in New York, we can infer it’s likely adaptable to various growing conditions typical of the northeastern United States.
If you do encounter this plant or wish to grow it, general Convolvulus care principles would likely apply:
- Provide well-draining soil
- Choose a sunny to partially sunny location
- Water moderately, as most bindweeds are relatively drought-tolerant once established
- Monitor for spreading, as many members of this family can be vigorous growers
The Bottom Line
Soft bindweed represents one of those quiet plants that exists on the margins of gardening attention. While it’s not harmful to grow, its non-native status and limited documentation make it more of a botanical curiosity than a garden staple. For most gardeners, especially those focused on supporting native ecosystems, choosing well-documented native alternatives will provide better results and more reliable growing information.
If you’re interested in supporting pollinators and wildlife, native plants will always be your best bet. They’ve evolved alongside local wildlife and provide the food sources and habitat that non-native plants simply can’t match, no matter how charming they might be.
