Hillside False Bindweed
Calystegia subacaulis subsp. Subacaulis
Care
0–0ft tall
Friendly
Prized
Coast Ranges and Sierra foothills from San Luis Obispo County to Glenn County, 1000-2500 ft elevation, in grasslands and open woodlands
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your hillside false bindweed in a location that matches its native habitat in the Bay Area's woodland and chaparral scrub. This is a low-growing perennial that reaches only about 7 inches tall, so give it space to spread via its rhizomes without crowding nearby plants. Since this species is endemic to California and thrives in local conditions, fall through early spring is your best planting window to let it establish before summer.
After Planting
Water regularly during your plant's first growing season to help it establish, then taper off as it matures - this native is adapted to survive our dry summers once rooted. Expect the plant to behave as a perennial that may die back seasonally; this is normal. The biggest mistake Bay Area gardeners make is overwatering established plants, which can rot the woody caudex or rhizome, so let the soil dry out between waterings once the plant is past its first year.
Visit Calscape for more information about Hillside False Bindweed
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Larval development on Calystegia subacaulis host plant in spring months
Early spring nectar source for bumblebee colonies during emergence and queen establishment
Spring foraging on Calystegia flowers for pollen and nectar