Short-stalked False Bindweed Calystegia silvatica

Giant bindweed is a twining perennial vine in the morning glory family (Convolvulaceae) that is native to southern Europe, Africa, Asia and some areas of eastern and mid-western USA. However, it has been introduced to many areas of the USA and has escaped cultivation. There are also several accepted subspecies of this plant and the subspecies fraterniflora is native to the USA.

This is a vigorous twining vine that twines counterclockwise and can grow up to 10 feet long. It also spreads by rhizomes. It can be found in various areas as forests, fields, lawns and disturbed areas. Calystegia is Greek for "covered calyx" referring to the large bracts; silvatica is Latin for "of the forest."

The showy large white flowers appear in summer. The bracts of this flower overlap as they do not for hedge bindweed (C. sepium) and the flowers are larger. The simple leaves are large and arrow-shaped.. 

Grow this plant in full sun to partial shade on a trellis, wall or another vertical hardscape. It is adaptable to various soils and is drought-tolerant once established. Be aware it will spread aggressively. See less problematic vines listed to the left.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems. Can be weedy and difficult to eradicate. It has invaded crop fields and can cause problems.