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What is Convolvulaceae?

Rebecca Cartwright
Rebecca Cartwright

Convolvulaceae is the name of a family of flowering plants in the order Solanales. The family is commonly known as the morning glory family or bindweed family, and its most familiar members are twining vines with trumpet-shaped flowers. Species in the Convolvulaceae family are common in both temperate and tropical parts of the world.

The classification of members of the Convolvulaceae family is not completely agreed upon, so the number of species and genera said to belong to the family varies. There appear to be between 50 and 85 genera and from 1,500 to 2,800 species. Though the family is particularly common in the Amazon basin and the tropical regions of Asia, it is also well represented in the temperate zones of both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. More than 195 species in 18 genera occur in North America.

Woman with a flower
Woman with a flower

Some species in the family are woody vines, shrubs or trees, but most are herbaceous climbing or trailing vines. Leaves can be simple, complex or lobed and are arranged alternately on the stems. Most species have milky sap that can be irritating to human skin.

Flowers are a distinguishing characteristic of the Convolvulaceae family. They are trumpet-shaped, many with five faint lobes, and occur mainly in white and shades of pink. The flower buds are twisted and straighten as they open. Most flowers are open for only hours or, at most, a day. Fruits and seeds are both relatively inconspicuous.

There are several species, including morning glories themselves, in horticultural use as flowering plants. Some of these have spread from gardens and become pests where they were introduced outside their native range. Both in gardens and in the wild, many of these flowers are nectar sources for insects and a few also attract hummingbirds.

One species, Ipomoea batatas, the sweet potato, is an important food source in many tropical areas. The most important part of the sweet potato plant is the starchy tuber, but the leaves can also be eaten as a green vegetable. Sweet potatoes and their dried stems are sometimes used as food for stock animals.

Some Convolvulaceae species thrive on disturbed ground and are significant weeds in many areas. The most important of these is Convolvulus arvensis, or field bindweed. The name bindweed is also used for several other species, including some outside of the Convolvulaceae family. Two Convolvulaceae species, Ipomoea violacea and Turbina corymbosa, produce hallucinogenic substances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Convolvulaceae family and what are its main characteristics?

The Convolvulaceae, commonly known as the morning glory family, is a group of flowering plants that includes over 60 genera and more than 1,650 species. They are characterized by their twining stems, funnel-shaped flowers, and ability to thrive in a variety of habitats. Many species are known for their striking blooms that open at dawn and close by the afternoon.

Can you name some common plants that belong to the Convolvulaceae family?

Common plants in the Convolvulaceae family include the well-known morning glories (Ipomoea), the sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), and the field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis). The sweet potato is particularly significant as a food crop, while morning glories are popular ornamentals known for their vibrant flowers and climbing growth habit.

Are there any economically important species within the Convolvulaceae family?

Yes, the Convolvulaceae family includes the sweet potato, which is a vital food crop globally. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, sweet potatoes rank among the top ten most important staple foods in the world, providing essential nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, and manganese, as well as dietary fiber.

How do Convolvulaceae plants typically reproduce?

Convolvulaceae plants reproduce both sexually through seed production and asexually via vegetative means such as cuttings or tubers. Many species produce attractive flowers that facilitate pollination by insects, birds, and other animals, while others, like the sweet potato, can propagate through their tuberous roots, ensuring the spread and survival of the species.

What types of habitats are Convolvulaceae plants found in?

Convolvulaceae plants are incredibly versatile and can be found in a wide range of habitats, from tropical and subtropical regions to temperate zones. They are adaptable to various soil types and environmental conditions, which allows them to inhabit areas such as coastal regions, forests, grasslands, and even arid deserts.

Are there any invasive species within the Convolvulaceae family?

Yes, some species within the Convolvulaceae family are considered invasive in certain regions. For example, the field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) is notorious for its aggressive growth and ability to outcompete native plants, leading to challenges in agricultural and natural settings. Its resilience and rapid spread make it a problematic invasive species in many parts of the world.

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    • Woman with a flower
      Woman with a flower