Evolvulus nuttallianus
Back to Previous Page
Tried and True Recommended by 1 Professional
Species Native to Missouri
Common Name: evolvulus
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Convolvulaceae
Zone: 4 to 10
Native Range: Northern and western United States
Height: 1 to 1.5 feet
Spread: 1 to 1.5 feet
Bloom Time: June to To frost
Bloom Color: Blue, Lavender
Bloom Description: Lavender to blue
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Flowers: Showy Flowers
Uses: Groundcover, Suitable as Annual

Culture

This species is winter hardy to USDA Zone 4. It is easily grown in organically rich, consistently moist, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Performs well in sandy soils with good drainage. Plants may be difficult to find in commerce.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Evolvulus nuttallianus is native from Montana and North Dakota south to Texas and Arizona. In Missouri, it is found on limestone glades and bald knobs in the Ozark region of the State (Steyermark). It is a non-vining morning glory-like perennial that grows as a densely hairy subshrub to 20” tall with prostrate to decumbent stems that root at the nodes as they go. Genus name comes from the Latin word meaning “to unroll” in reference to this non-vining habit. Features very small, bell-shaped, lavender to blue morning glories (to 1/2” across) from spring to mid-summer on stems clad with oblanceolate, hairy, silvery-green leaves (to 1” long). Flowers usually close up at night and on cloudy days. It must be noted that there is considerable confusion in the taxonomy of the genus Evolvulus. The within native species is sometimes listed as synonymous with E. pilosus (e.g., see Stemermark).

Problems

No known serious insect or disease problems.

Garden Uses

Best for rock gardens or native plant gardens.

Back to Previous Page