Pacific False Bindweed (Calystegia purpurata)

Pacific False Bindweed

Calystegia purpurata

Vining stems carry purple trumpets, weaving soft color through coastal dunes. Perennial climbing vine; common name: Purple Bindweed.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal salt spray and windy conditions
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Watering Water deeply when top 2–3 cm of soil dries out; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to 0°C; thrives in cool coastal temperatures, avoids extreme summer heat above 32°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Arrow-shaped medium green foliage, smooth margins, 3–8 cm long
  • Flower: Trumpet-shaped purple blooms, 4–7 cm wide, closing at midday
  • Stem: Slender twining herbaceous stems with sparse fine hairs
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Care Guide

Watering

Water regularly to support growth and flowering; avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 4 weeks. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive foliage growth over blooms

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tsp per plant around the base and water in to release nutrients
Pruning
  • Trim back overgrown stems in late winter to stimulate new spring growth
  • Remove spent blooms to maintain a tidy garden appearance
  • Cut back tangled vines to prevent overcrowding of neighboring plants
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental groundcover or climbing vine for coastal rock gardens and sand dune stabilization