Convolvulus Cneorum

Silverbush / Silver Bush / Shrubby Bindweed / Silvery Bindweed

Botanical Name: Convolvulus cneorum
Family: Convolvulaceae
Origin: Mediterranean (southern Europe)
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub (low, mounded; often used as groundcover)

Overview

A compact, sun-loving shrub forming a neat silvery dome of foliage, smothered in white, yellow-throated flowers in spring–early summer. Excellent for coastal and gravel gardens where drainage is sharp.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.3-0.6 m H x 0.6-1.0 m W
• Growth Rate: 20-40 (spread) cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Narrow, silvery/pewter leaves with a silky sheen; holds colour year-round
• Flowers: White trumpets with a golden eye, mainly spring–early summer, with spot flowers later
  
• Seasonal Interest: Spring flush of bloom; luminous silver foliage year-round
• Wildlife Value: Nectar for bees and other pollinators
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant, coastal-tolerant (salt and spray); light–moderate frost (protect from hard frost)
• Planting Density: Mass plant 3–5 per m² for coverage; edging 3–4 per linear metre
• Pet Friendly: Generally non-toxic; any plant ingestion may upset pets

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun (flowers best); light part shade tolerated
• Soil: Free-draining sandy or loamy soils; raised/mounded beds on heavier ground
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks; Established: Deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Light trim after flowering to keep compact (avoid cutting into old wood); mulch in spring; light slow-release feed in early spring
• Lifespan: 10-15 years
• Climate Zones: Temperate & Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
• Soil pH: Neutral to alkaline preferred; copes with slightly acidic if drainage is sharp

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Coastal/rock gardens and gravel beds for a bright silver foil to darker plants
• Edging and front-of-border mounds along paths, drives and sunny courtyards
• Containers and raised planters where drainage is perfect and foliage can cascade

Why You Will Love It

A tough little silver cushion that bursts with white, sun-sparked blooms each spring, thrives on neglect once settled, and keeps your garden looking crisp and bright all year.