Convolvulus sabatius

Convolvulus sabatius is an undershrub ground cover with long prostrate branches, adorned with small semi-evergreen leaves, which bear large cup-shaped blue mauve flowers throughout the summer and into autumn. It will bring originality to rockeries, the tops of walls, and stony terrain. Native to the Mediterranean region, it is a slightly frost-sensitive species that should be reserved for mild climates (especially near the sea as it is not afraid of sea spray), or for annual pots and hanging baskets.

Convolvulus sabatius belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. It is a close relative of hedge bindweed, which frequently finds its way into our gardens and also bears cup-shaped flowers. But don't panic, the comparison stops there! This bindweed is native to the Moroccan coast, but also seems to be present in Italy as it was named after the ancient Roman city of Vada Sabatia (now Vado Ligure, not far from Genoa). This beautiful species is found in rather arid coastal areas, in dry and rocky, often limestone soils. It forms a low cushion, gradually spreading with its long creeping lignified stems. They are adorned with small ovate, evergreen leaves in mild climates. Between June and October, it reveals its major asset: it produces hundreds of cup-shaped flowers in an elegant and rare light-blue to mauve, with delicately marked yellow centres by the stamens. Moreover, these flowers are appreciated by numerous butterflies and bees. The clump is not invasive and content to crawl over a rockery or cascade from a wall, which will disappear under the abundance (and length) of its incredible flowering. It reaches a height of about 20cm (8in), with a spread of 60cm (24in), or even 1m (3ft) under very good conditions.

Cultivating Convolvulus sabatius is quite easy: it simply requires full sun and perfectly well-drained rocky soil. Once established, it will never ask for a single drop of water! In fact, it dislikes excess watering. Rockeries, path borders, steps, and the tops of stone walls are ideal places to grow it. Moreover, the species tolerates sea spray very well, making it an excellent ground cover choice in mild coastal areas. However, its hardiness is quickly put to the test, and it will be difficult to keep it outdoors if temperatures frequently drop below -5°C (23°F), especially if the soil is not well-drained in winter. Even if it doesn't die, its above-ground parts will suffer if exposed to pronounced frosts. Some sources mention a resistance of -8°C (17.6°F), but this is only possible in a dry and suitable environment. Under less favourable conditions, it still remains an excellent plant for annual hanging baskets or potted plants that you can store during winter.

This beautiful species, still not widely planted, will form splendid associations with other Mediterranean plants, such as Agapanthus 'Blue Heaven' , Agave ovatifolia, Flat-leaved Eryngo, or Euphorbia 'Purple and Gold'. It will also be a delightful ground cover at the base of tall perennials, such as the hemp-leaved marsh mallow.