Convolvulaceae Family

About the Convolvulaceae or Morning Glory Family

The Convolvulaceae family, also known as the morning glory family, comprises over 60 genera and 1,650 species of flowering plants. These plants are found worldwide and range from annuals to perennials, herbs to shrubs, and vines to trees. Many species are known for their showy trumpet-shaped flowers that open in the morning and close at night, while others have small, inconspicuous blooms. Some members of the family are considered invasive species, while others are cultivated for their medicinal or ornamental value.

Taxonomy and Classification

The Convolvulaceae family is classified under the order Solanales, which includes other families such as Solanaceae (the nightshade family) and Cuscutaceae (the dodder family). Within the Convolvulaceae family, there are several subfamilies, including Convolvuloideae, Cuscutoideae, and Lettsomioideae. The largest genus within the family is Ipomoea, which includes over 500 species. Other notable genera include Calystegia, Evolvulus, and Cuscuta (dodder). The family is closely related to the Solanaceae family and shares some similar characteristics, such as alkaloids and iridoid compounds.

Morphology and Characteristics

Plants in the Convolvulaceae family come in many different forms, including annuals, perennials, herbs, shrubs, vines, and trees. Many species have a twining habit, using their stems or petioles to wrap around neighboring plants for support. The leaves of these plants vary widely in shape and size, from simple to deeply lobed, and can be alternate or opposite on the stem. Flowers of the Convolvulaceae family are typically showy and trumpet-shaped, with five fused petals forming a funnel-shaped corolla. The flowers come in a wide range of colors, including white, pink, red, blue, and purple. Many species of this family produce fruit in the form of capsules or berries containing seeds. Some species also have edible roots or tubers, such as sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), which is a staple food crop in many countries.

Distribution and Habitat

The Convolvulaceae family has a wide distribution, with members found on every continent except Antarctica. Many species are native to tropical and subtropical regions, but others can be found in temperate climates. The highest diversity of this family is found in the Neotropics, particularly in Mexico and Central and South America. Some genera, such as Convolvulus and Calystegia, have a cosmopolitan distribution and can be found in many different regions around the world. Plants in the Convolvulaceae family grow in a wide range of habitats, from forests and grasslands to deserts and wetlands. They are often found along roadsides, fence lines, and disturbed areas, and some are considered invasive species in certain regions.

Economic and Ecological Importance

The Convolvulaceae family is economically and ecologically significant. Many species are cultivated for their ornamental value, including morning glories (Ipomoea spp.) and bindweeds (Convolvulus spp.). The sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) is a staple food crop in many countries and is one of the most important root vegetables globally. Some species also have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, such as coughs and digestive issues. Ecologically, plants in the Convolvulaceae family play an important role in ecosystems by providing habitat and food sources for wildlife. They are also important in pollinator conservation, as many species are attractive to bees and butterflies. Some species, such as field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis), can be problematic as weeds that are difficult to control.

Notable Species

Some notable species in the Convolvulaceae family include:

  • Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas): A staple food crop worldwide, sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. They are grown for their starchy tubers, which come in various shapes and colors.

  • Morning Glory (Ipomoea spp.): These popular garden plants are known for their showy trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in a range of colors, including blue, pink, purple, and white. Some species, such as the moonflower (I. alba), have fragrant flowers that open at night.

  • Bindweed (Convolvulus spp.): This genus includes several species that are cultivated as ornamental plants, such as the creeping Jenny (C. arvensis) and silverbush (C. cneorum). However, some species, such as field bindweed (C. arvensis), can be problematic as weeds that are difficult to control.

  • Dodder (Cuscuta spp.): These parasitic plants lack chlorophyll and rely on host plants for nutrients. Dodders have thin, yellow or orange stems that wrap around other plants, eventually killing them. Some species of dodder are considered pests of crops.

  • Hawaiian Woodrose (Argyreia nervosa): This climbing vine is native to Southeast Asia but has been introduced to many tropical regions worldwide. It contains psychoactive compounds and has been used traditionally for their hallucinogenic effects. The seeds of this plant are used to make a traditional beverage called "bhang" in India.

  • Blue Dawn Flower (Ipomoea indica): Also known as oceanblue morning glory, this twining vine produces striking blue flowers with a white throat. The plant is often grown as an ornamental in subtropical regions and is attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds.