Tripterygium wilfordii

Family: Celastraceae

What it is like

Tripterygium wilfordii is a deciduous Climber growing to 12 m (39ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in flower in September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 12

Where it is found

Field and ditch edges and on the banks of streams.

E. Asia - S. China to Burma.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 2

All parts of the plant are highly poisonous and should not be used internally. They are antiphlogistic, antirheumatic and depurative. They are used externally in the treatment of pruritis and ulcers of the waistband. The plant contains various anticancer compounds, including dulcitol. A tincture of the plant has brought relief to 98% of rheumatic arthritic patients.

Antiphlogistic: Reduces inflammation.

Depurative: Eliminates toxins and purifies the system, especially the blood.

Other

Rating:

The pulverized roots are used as an insecticide. All parts of the plant are highly toxic and are used to kill maggots and larvae - they will also poison rats, birds etc.

Insecticide: Kills insects.

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Succeeds in any fertile soil in sun or part shade, flowering best when in a sunny position. Prefers a moist loamy soil. Tolerates chalky soils. This species is not very hardy in Britain, succeeding outdoors only in the milder areas of the country. It requires the protection of a wall and a minimum temperature of about -5°c. Plants can be grown into trees or over unsightly walls. The flowers diffuse a soft sweet perfume.

Propagating it: Seed - sow autumn in a 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.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Climber

Hardiness: 8-11

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

All parts of the plant are highly toxic.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

T. forrestii. T. hypoglaucum.