Field bindweed

Field bindweed                                         Convolvulus arvensis L.

Family:   Convolvulaceae (Morningglory family)                
Life cycle:  Perennial, reproduces by seed and deep vegetative rootstocks
Native status: Introduced
Habitat:  Crop fields, fence lines, landscapes                      

General description:   Twining, herbaceous vine with alternate, lanceolate leaves.  Leaves of field bindweed typically are smaller than those of hedge bindweed.  White, funnel-shaped flower with two small bracts on flower stalk.  Produces an extensive network of underground rootstocks.

Key ID traits:  Base of leaves without distinct lobe; small bracts on flower stalk (pedicel) is separate from flowers.

Similar species:   Hedge bindweed generally has larger leaves with basal lobes; wild buckwheat is an annual and has ochrea at the base of leaf petioles and inconspicuous flowers;  honeyvine milkweed has opposite leaves;  morningglory species in Iowa either have heart-shaped (tall) or three-lobed (ivyleaf) leaves.

Miscellaneous:  Field bindweed is more aggressive in crop fields than hedge bindweed; it was one of the most severe weeds in Iowa prior to introduction of synthetic herbicides.  Frequently called creeping Jenny.