Convolvulus TRICOLOR 'BLUE FLASH'

Convolvulus TRICOLOR 'BLUE FLASH' - Dwarf Morning Glory 'Blue Flash', Tricolor Convolvulus 'Blue Flash'.

Convolvulus is a genus of herbaceous plants in the bindweed family (Convolvulaceae), comprising over 200 species and distributed across warm and temperate regions of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Plants of this genus are annual or perennial herbaceous vines with slender twining shoots and heart-shaped leaves. They possess rapid growth and tenacity, which makes them widely used in vertical gardening.

Flowering occurs during the warm season. The flowers are funnel-shaped, large, solitary, opening in the morning and closing by evening. Coloration ranges from white and pink to bright blue and violet. The fruits are spherical capsules containing three seeds inside.

Convolvulus tricolor 'Blue Flash' is a vibrant annual with compact bushy growth, reaching up to 40 cm (15.7 in) in height. The shoots are erect or decumbent, the leaves ovate, soft, and green. Flowering is profuse and prolonged.

The flowers are funnel-shaped, up to 5 cm (2.0 in) in diameter, rich blue with a bright yellow center and a white transitional ring between shades. They open in sunny weather and close in the evening. Flowering occurs from June to September. The fruits are three-celled capsules containing brown seeds.

Seeds are sown into a loose, moistened substrate and lightly sprinkled with soil. Sowing is performed in March-April for seedlings, or in May directly into the open ground, maintaining a distance of 20-25 cm (7.9-9.8 in) between plants. Germination temperature is 20-24 °C (68-75 °F). Containers are covered with film and ventilated daily.

Seedlings appear in 10-14 days. After the appearance of 2-3 true leaves, pricking out is carried out. Seedlings are planted in their permanent spot once steady warmth arrives. Flowering begins 50-60 days after germination.

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Cultivation in a sunny spot is recommended, preferably with a southern or southwestern exposure. In insufficient light, flowering becomes sparse. In shade, the plant stretches and loses its ornamental appeal.

In the warm season, a temperature of 20-26 °C (68-79 °F) is maintained. Low temperatures are not tolerated. Watering is performed regularly after the top layer of soil dries out. Water stagnation is not permitted. In hot weather, misting is recommended in the morning or evening.

A loose, well-draining substrate with a neutral or slightly alkaline reaction is used. Repotting is not required, as the plant is cultivated as an annual. Planting into a permanent location is carried out after the danger of frost has passed.

From the start of active growth until the end of flowering, fertilizer for flowering annuals is applied every 2 weeks. Excessive nitrogen feeding reduces flower count and stimulates lush foliage growth.

Regular removal of faded flowers is conducted to prolong blooming. Propagation is done by seeds. Taking cuttings is not practiced due to the annual life cycle.