Convolvulus tricolor ‘Blue Ensign’, commonly known as Dwarf Morning Glory, is a captivating and colorful annual or short-lived perennial that originates from the Mediterranean region.
Here are the key features and care guidelines for this delightful plant:
Description:
- ‘Blue Ensign’ is celebrated for its profusion of flared trumpets, each measuring about 2 inches (5 cm) across. The flowers feature a striking color combination with a golden-yellow center surrounded by royal blue petals and a white ring.
- The flowers are short-lived, remaining open for only one day. However, the plant compensates by producing a continuous succession of blooms from early summer through fall.
- The attractive flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, enhancing the garden’s pollinator activity.
- The plant itself has a low-growing and bushy habit. It sends up branching stems adorned with narrow, lance-shaped mid-green leaves.
Size:
- ‘Blue Ensign’ typically grows to a height of around 6 inches (15 cm) and spreads 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) wide.
Cultural Requirements:
- This plant thrives in average, well-drained soils and prefers a spot with full sun. In areas with hot summers, providing some light afternoon shade can be beneficial.
- Once established, ‘Blue Ensign’ is known for its tolerance to heat and drought conditions, making it a suitable choice for gardens with challenging climates.
Benefits and Uses:
- Dwarf Morning Glory is an ideal option for adding bursts of color to various garden settings, including beds, borders, rock gardens, groundcovers, and containers. It also works well as an edging plant, creating a vibrant border along walkways or garden beds.
- Its compact growth habit makes it particularly suitable for smaller garden spaces, rockeries, and spaces where space is limited.
- The continuous blooming and pollinator-friendly flowers make this plant a wonderful addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.
Propagation and Growing:
- ‘Blue Ensign’ can be easily grown from seeds. You can start seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last spring frost date or sow them directly in the garden several days prior to the last frost date.
- When sowing seeds indoors, provide them with the necessary warmth, light, and moisture for successful germination. Once the threat of frost has passed, you can transplant the seedlings outdoors.
Conclusion: Convolvulus tricolor ‘Blue Ensign’ (Dwarf Morning Glory) is a visually striking and charming plant that adds vibrant color and pollinator attraction to gardens. With its captivating blue and yellow flowers, low-growing habit, and ability to thrive in diverse garden settings, it offers both aesthetic beauty and practical versatility. Whether grown in beds, borders, rock gardens, containers, or as groundcovers, this plant’s continuous blooming and ease of cultivation make it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking to enhance their outdoor spaces with a touch of Mediterranean flair.