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Description
Vincetoxicum Atratum, commonly known as black milkweed or black swallow-wort, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia but can also be found in North America, where it is considered an invasive species. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and has a branching stem with milky sap. It produces small, dark purple flowers that bloom in clusters from June to September. The fruit of Vincetoxicum Atratum is a long, narrow capsule that contains numerous seeds with silky hairs that aid in wind dispersal.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Vincetoxicum |
Appearance
Vincetoxicum Atratum has an upright growth habit and can reach up to 1.5 meters in height. The stem is branching and produces milky sap when cut. The leaves are opposite, oval-shaped, and have pointed tips. They are dark green and can grow up to 10 centimeters long. The flowers of Vincetoxicum Atratum are small, dark purple, and have a unique star-shaped corolla. They bloom in clusters from June to September and are followed by long, narrow capsules that contain numerous seeds with silky hairs.
Care Guide
Vincetoxicum Atratum is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Vincetoxicum Atratum prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Vincetoxicum Atratum can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vincetoxicum Atratum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can also be a problem if the soil is poorly drained, so make sure to plant Vincetoxicum Atratum in well-drained soil.
Habitat
Vincetoxicum Atratum is native to Europe and Asia but can also be found in North America, where it is considered an invasive species. It can grow in a variety of habitats, including open woods, fields, meadows, and roadsides. Vincetoxicum Atratum is adaptable to different soil types and can grow in both dry and moist conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Vincetoxicum Atratum poisonous?
A: Yes, Vincetoxicum Atratum is poisonous to humans and animals. The plant contains cardiac glycosides, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and heart problems if ingested.
Q: Is Vincetoxicum Atratum a good plant for pollinators?
A: No, Vincetoxicum Atratum is not a good plant for pollinators as it produces little nectar and its flowers are difficult for insects to access.
Q: Can Vincetoxicum Atratum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Vincetoxicum Atratum can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How do I propagate Vincetoxicum Atratum?
A: Vincetoxicum Atratum can be propagated by seed or by dividing the plant in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Vincetoxicum Hirundinaria
- Vincetoxicum Rossicum
- Vincetoxicum Nigrum
- Vincetoxicum Pannonicum
References
- “Vincetoxicum Atratum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 16 September 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h620
- “Vincetoxicum Atratum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 16 September 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/90053/Vincetoxicum-atratum/Details
- “Black Swallow-wort.” New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Accessed 16 September 2021. https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/72766.html
