Mature Plant

Description: Field bindweed (also called creeping jenny or morningglory) is a perennial reproducing by both seeds and underground roots. The root system is very extensive and may penetrate the soil to a depth of 20 to 30 feet. The plant grows prostate or will climb on any nearby object. The spreading stems are smooth, slender, usually twining, and may reach lengths of 2 to 7 feet on a mature plant. The leaves are alternate with smooth margins, and are arrow-shaped with two basal lobes. The flowers are white to pink, approximately 1 inch in diameter, funnel shaped, and are borne singly on long stalks in the axil of the leaf. The flower stalk has 2 bracts located 1/2 to 2 inches below the flower, which helps to distinguish this weed from hedge bindweed. Flowering occurs from May to September. The seeds are borne in seed pods that are egg-shaped and contain four seeds. The seeds are dark brownish-gray, 1/8 inch long, have a roughened surface, and have one rounded and two flattened sides.

Seedling

Distribution: Field bindweed will grow in most cultivated fields, gardens, lawns, waste areas, and along roadsides. Field bindweed is found throughout Minnesota, with the heaviest infestations in the western half of the state.