Cynanchum amplexicaule
Family: Asclepiadaceae
What it is like
Cynanchum amplexicaule is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from August to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 1
Where it is found
Mountain slopes, grasslands and maritime dunes from sea level to elevations of 1000 metres.
E. Asia - China, Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Young leaves - boiled. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Young seedpods - boiled. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.
Seedpod: things such as Okra, French and Runner beans.
Medicine
Rating: 1
The decocted root is used with other herbs as a diuretic and febrifuge. All parts are used medicinally for traumatic injury, rheumatic arthralgia, and swelling.
Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.
Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. It probably does not have any special cultivation requirements and will probably succeed in most soils in a sunny position though it may require a moister soil.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in the greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in spring.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial Climber
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
There are some reports of toxins in this genus.