Cynanchum paniculatum

Family: Asclepiadaceae

What it is like

Cynanchum paniculatum is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). 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): 1

Where it is found

Grassy slopes in hills and mountains all over Japan. Sunny meadows from the lowlands to elevations of 1000 metres.

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Leaves - boiled. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicine

Rating: 2

A decoction of the root or whole plant is anodyne and carminative. It stimulates blood circulation. A decoction is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, lumbago, abdominal pain and vomiting, acute gastro-enteritis, hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, ascites, snake bites and traumatic injuries. The root is used to quiet nervous afflictions and travel sickness.

Anodyne: Relieves pain, it is milder than an analgesic.

Carminative: Reduces flatulence and expels gas from the intestines.

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: 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.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Pycnostelma paniculatum.