Rajmahal Hemp
Marsdenia tenacissima
Family: Asclepiadaceae
What it is like
Marsdenia tenacissima is a CLIMBER growing to 10 m (32ft 10in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. 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): 10
Where it is found
Hedges, waste places and amongst shrubs.
E. Asia - China, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam.
Conservation Status: This taxon has not yet been assessed
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 4
A very strong fibre can be obtained from the bark of young shoots. It is used for making rope. The stems yield very strong fibers, reputedly among the strongest produced by any plant, that are used for making cords and strings. A latex (the coagulated milky sap) is obtained from the stem. It can be used like India-rubber. Wood - moderately hard.
Fibre: Used for making cloth, rope, paper etc.
Latex: A source of rubber.
Wood: A list of the trees and shrubs that are noted for having useful wood.
How it is grown
Thrives on poor land.
Propagating it: Seed -
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Climber
Hardiness: 10-12
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
Its other names
Local names
Rajmahal Hemp