Blushing bindweed, Australian Bindweed, Pink Bindweed, Tarook
Convolvulus erubescens
Family: Convolvulaceae
What it is like
A hairy twiner. It grows 10-30 cm high and spreads 50 cm wide. The stems are hairy. The leaves are arrowhead shaped. They are 5 cm long. Often the leaves near the base have broad lobes and those higher up are more narrow. There can be teeth along the edge. The flowers are bright rose-pink. They are 15-25 mm across. They are held upright along the stems. The flowers are funnel shaped. The fruit is a capsule about 0.5 cm across.
There are about 250 Convolvulus species. Plants have been used in medicine. Possibly now Convolvulus angustissimus subsp. angustissimus
Where it is found
It grows in subtropical and temperate places. It grows in open places from coastal heathland to forest and inland areas. It needs well drained soil. It suits hot sunny positions. It often grows in dry open grassland. It is resistant to drought and frost. It can grow in arid places. Tasmania Herbarium.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Hawaii, Pacific, Tasmania (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The taproot is roasted and eaten. It is fibrous and not very tasty.
Edible parts
Leaves, root
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.
It is fast growing.
Its other names
Local names
Anulytja, Tarook