Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) on Jul 13, 2008
Submitter has sample
Description of specimen
Commonly identified, locally, as Morning Glory but correctly it is Field Bindweed. Heart shaped leaves with white trumpet shaped flowers. Rapidly growing on long vines, it climbs voraciously and winds around all other vegetation and chokes local vegetation out within a very short time.
Commentary
Expert Reviewer
Tania Siemens
WISE Program Coordinator (Watershed and Invasive Species Education)
Oregon Sea Grant Extension
Oregon State University
tania.siemens@oregonstate.edu
541-914-0701
Thanks for your report of morning glory or field bindweed. Considered a pest through out the United States, bindweed is known for is ability to reduce crop yields by 50%. It competes with crops for moisture and nutrients, and is difficult to remove once established. The twining nature of the plant hampers harvesting of crops, especially in orchards and vineyards.
Your report will be forwarded to the Oregon Department of Agriculture for their records. It is unlikely this particular population will be controlled since it is already very abundant in the area and funding for weed control is limited. Priority is usually given to new invaders that could be eradicated if detected early.
Please do keep looking for and reporting invasive species. The following species are currently prioritized for early detection in Lane County: yellow starthistle, garlic mustard, false brome, and meadow knapweed. You can learn more about these species at: http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/PLANT/WEEDS/statelist2.shtml
Public participation is crucial for state wide early detection efforts. We hope you will learn about, look for, and report these species if you find them. Thanks again!!
Tania Siemens
Oregon Sea Grant Extension/The Nature Conservancy
tania.siemens@oregonstate.edu
Tania Siemens
Aug. 4, 2008, 2:37 a.m.