Field Bindweed

Field bindweed is a member of the Morning glory family. This creeping perennial was introduced from Europe. It reproduces by seeds and horizontal roots. The stems are smooth, slender, slightly angled, one to four feet long. It spreads thickly over the ground or winds around erect plants or other objects.

The leaves are alternate, one to two inches long varying in shape. They are somewhat arrow-shaped with spreading, pointed, or blunt lobes at the base. The flowers are bell or trumpet-shaped, white or pink and about 3/4 to one inch broad.

Field bindweed is found throughout Colorado. It is one of the most competitive perennial weeds. A two or three year food supply is stored in the extensive underground root system. This makes it hard to kill by cultivation because roots will live as long as their food reserve lasts.
Seed scan remain viable in the soil for up to forty years. It is widespread in cultivated areas, pastures, lawns, gardens, roadsides, and waste areas in Colorado from 4,000 to 8,000 feet. It is a problem weed in ornamentals and grain producing fields.