Cynanchum caudatum
Family: Asclepiadaceae
What it is like
Cynanchum caudatum is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER. It is in flower from July to August. 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): 0
Where it is found
Climbs up shrubs and trees in China, Edges of deciduous forests at elevations of 600 - 1700 metres in central and northern Japan.
E. Asia - China, Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Root - cooked to remove the bitterness. The root must be thoroughly leeched in order to rid it of toxins.
Root: includes bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes etc.
Medicine
Rating: 1
The rhizome is diuretic. A decoction is used in the treatment of liver cirrhosis, ascots, poor digestion, 'accumulation' stoppage caused abdominal pain, gonorrhoea and leucorrhoea.
Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.
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.
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: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; 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
The root is toxic.