Field Bindweed Convolvulus arvensis

Field bindweed is a vine in the Convolvulaceae (morning glory) family native to Europe and Asia.  Found growing in moist thickets, fields, lawns, agricultural fields, and disturbed areas.  The common name devil's guts refer to its tendency to grow in a messy trailing or twining manner forming tangled dense mats

It is tolerant of poor soils and drought and prefers full sun, though it is most often found growing in moist areas like riparian corridors or areas that receive irrigation.  This vine is cold tolerant.  Native plants are easily outcompeted by this vine.

Thought to be brought over through contamination of agriculture or horticulture products.  It has sometimes been used as a groundcover or in hanging baskets but it quickly escaped cultivation and became weedy and aggressive, especially in disturbed sites.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  While the flowers are beautiful, it is considered an invasive and noxious weed in 35 States, mostly in the west and midwest from Michigan to California. It spreads by seeds, roots, and rhizomes and has an extensive root system making it very difficult to eradicate.