hedge bindweed
(Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br)

Overview

Appearance

Calystegia sepium is a perennial vine that can grow up to 10 ft. (3 m) long, often climbing over other herbaceous plants and shrubs.

Foliage

The stems are light green or red, with the leaves occurring sparsely. The leaves are about 4-5 in. (10-13 cm) and 2-3 in. (5-7.6 cm) across, usually with an arrowhead shape, which is deeply incised at the base.

Flowers

Flowers are funnel-shaped, white to lavender in color, and are about 2.5-3 in. (6.4-7.6 cm) across. The flowers open during the morning, and bloom during summer.

Fruit

Fruit is an egg-shaped capsule containing 2-4 dark brown to black seeds that are 0.2 in. (5 mm) long.

Ecological Threat

Calystegia sepium prefers disturbed areas including, cropland, pastures, abandoned fields, and areas along roadsides and railroads. It is native to Eurasia. This weed can be mistaken for Field Bindweed. However, field bindweed leaves are smaller, with a more rounded apex, and bases that are pointed or rounded, but not cut off squarely across the top as in Calystegia sepium.

Selected Images

Maps

Invasive Listing Sources

• Michigan Noxious Weeds
• Ohio Noxious Weeds

References