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Description
Cynanchum Officinale, commonly known as Swallow-wort, is a perennial plant belonging to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, but has been introduced to North America. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a deep root system that makes it difficult to remove once established. The stems are green and hairless, while the leaves are lance-shaped and arranged opposite each other on the stem. The flowers are small and star-shaped, with shades of pink or white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Cynanchum |
Appearance
Cynanchum Officinale has lance-shaped leaves that are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The leaves are green and hairless. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a deep root system that makes it difficult to remove once established. The flowers are small and star-shaped, with shades of pink or white. The plant has a milky sap that can be toxic if ingested.
Care Guide
Water: Cynanchum Officinale prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought once established.Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Cynanchum Officinale prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cynanchum Officinale is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew.
Habitat
Cynanchum Officinale is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa but has been introduced to North America. The plant can be found in meadows, pastures, and along roadsides. It prefers open spaces with full sun and moist, well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cynanchum Officinale toxic?
A: Yes, the plant has a milky sap that can be toxic if ingested.Q: Where is Cynanchum Officinale native to?
A: The plant is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa.Q: Can Cynanchum Officinale tolerate periods of drought?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate periods of drought once established.Q: What pests and diseases can affect Cynanchum Officinale?
A: The plant can be affected by spider mites, aphids, root rot, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Cynanchum atratum
- Cynanchum bungei
- Cynanchum caudatum
- Cynanchum chinense
- Cynanchum komarovii
References
- “Cynanchum Officinale.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c440.
- “Cynanchum Officinale.” Plantwise Knowledge Bank, 1 Mar. 2021, plantwise.org/knowledgebank/datasheet/16440.
- “Cynanchum Officinale.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16752/Cynanchum-officinale/Details.
