Convolvulus arvensis

Convolvulus arvensis, commonly known as field bindweed, is a creeping or climbing herbaceous perennial vine in the morning glory family. It is characterized by its arrowhead-shaped leaves, small white or pale pink trumpet-shaped flowers, and an extensive root system. It is widely recognized as a persistent and difficult-to-eradicate agricultural weed.

Native to Europe and Asia, it has been introduced and naturalized in many other regions globally, including North America. It typically inhabits farmlands, pastures, roadsides, and waste places, preferring dry, nutrient-rich, and alkaline soils.

Ecologically, its flowers serve as an important nectar and pollen source for specialist sweat bees in the genus Systropha, as well as other pollinators. Otherwise, it is primarily regarded as a noxious weed with little to no economic or ornamental value.

In traditional folk medicine, preparations of the plant have historically been used as a strong purgative and laxative. It was also occasionally applied in folk remedies to treat wounds and reduce fevers.

Due to its aggressive, strangling growth habit that chokes out crops, it has been associated with the devil or bad luck in some rural folklore, earning it common names like 'devil's guts' and 'possession vine'.