Shore convolvulus

Scientific name: Calystegia soldanella
Maori name: Rauparaha, Nihinihi
English name: Shore convolvulus, Beach morning glory
Other names: shore bindweed

Pioneer Vine or creeper, other plant - native to the Wellington Region
Suits: dry, sunny, exposure, coastal and dune garden, small garden or balcony

About Shore convolvulus

An attractive ground covering plant for a difficult, dry, sunny or exposed spot. With trumpet like pink and white flowers and shiny kidney shaped leaves, this lovely convolvulus species adds the perfect look for a garden by the sea. The flowers are pollinated by insects and the fruit is present though out the year in large round capsules containing dark brown seeds.
Cooked roots and shoots of this bindweed were consumed by Maoris during late spring to early autumn and was a source of vitamins and carbohydrates Plants often form large patches or low mounds.

Usually growing in sand and shell banks, but can also grow in fine gravel and on occasion in coastal turf and bach lawns, as it does not require mowing and is much more interesting than the weed kikuyu grass (Pennisetum clandestinum Chiov.)

Becoming rarer as its habitats disappear.

Provides for birds