White swallow-wort

vincetoxicum hirundinaria

Also known as: ["Dogbane","Swallow-wort"]

Family: Apocynaceae Genus: Vincetoxicum Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant with climbing or trailing stems, known for its milky sap and small white flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae
Genus: Vincetoxicum
Botanical Name: Vincetoxicum hirundinaria

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate, removing up to one-third of the oldest stems.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. Place in filtered light during peak summer hours.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; adjust for seasonal light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.

Soil

well-drained, moderately fertile soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth

Fertilize during active growth; dilute to prevent burn; stop in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of root clumps.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply rooting hormone (optional).
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional, but can help speed up root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; thin out crowded areas.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger with drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting foliage. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or damage if below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a warm, sheltered location.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth stage; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Vincetoxicum hirundinaria may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Vincetoxicum hirundinaria can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to root damage.

Leaf spots on Vincetoxicum hirundinaria may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Vincetoxicum hirundinaria due to excessive moisture, leading to decay and the eventual death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the cardiac glycosides present in Vincetoxicum hirundinaria. Ingestion can result in severe cardiac dysfunction and systemic toxicity, requiring urgent veterinary intervention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy difficulty breathing irregular heartbeat tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. If poisoning is suspected, seek emergency veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

The cardiac glycosides in Vincetoxicum hirundinaria can cause severe cardiac and gastrointestinal distress in dogs. The toxins interfere with normal heart rhythm and can lead to life-threatening conditions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy weakness difficulty breathing collapse
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Vincetoxicum hirundinaria contains cardiac glycosides that can disrupt heart function and electrolyte balance. Ingestion can lead to severe physiological effects, particularly affecting the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain irregular heartbeat dizziness weakness confusion
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. Seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Vincetoxicum hirundinaria toxic to humans?

A: Yes, it is toxic to humans if ingested.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: Is this plant considered a weed?

A: Yes, it is often considered a weed due to its invasive tendencies.

Quick Reference
Family: Apocynaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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