Contents
Description
Funastrum Arenarium, commonly known as Sand Vine, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. Native to the United States, this plant is found throughout the central and western regions of the country. Sand Vine can grow up to three feet tall and three feet wide, with a spreading growth habit. It has light green leaves that grow up to two inches long and one inch wide. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and are produced in clusters from late spring to early summer. The plant produces a long, woody stem that is used in traditional medicine for its antispasmodic properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Funastrum |
Appearance
The Sand Vine has light green leaves that grow up to two inches long and one inch wide. The leaves are thin, lance-shaped, and smooth. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and are produced in clusters from late spring to early summer. The plant produces a long, woody stem that is used in traditional medicine for its antispasmodic properties. Sand Vine can grow up to three feet tall and three feet wide, with a spreading growth habit. It is an attractive plant that can be used as a groundcover or in a border.
Care Guide
Water: Sand Vine prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist but not wet. Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilize Sand Vine with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: Sand Vine prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight: Sand Vine prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Provide at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Hardiness Zones: Sand Vine is hardy in USDA zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sand Vine is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. To control these pests, spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Sand Vine can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Sand Vine is native to the United States and can be found throughout the central and western regions of the country. It grows in sandy and rocky areas, along roadsides, and in prairies and open woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sand Vine a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, Sand Vine is an excellent plant for erosion control due to its spreading growth habit and ability to thrive in sandy and rocky soil.
Q: Can Sand Vine be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Sand Vine can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Q: Does Sand Vine attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Sand Vine attracts bees and butterflies with its small, fragrant flowers.
Q: Does Sand Vine have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, the long, woody stem of Sand Vine is used in traditional medicine for its antispasmodic properties.
Related Plants
- Funastrum Clausum
- Funastrum Hirtellum
- Funastrum Luridum
References
- “Funastrum Arenarium (Sand Vine).” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 4, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287973.
- “Funastrum Arenarium.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=FUAR.
- “Funastrum Arenarium (Sand Vine).” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/sand_vinex.htm.
