🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Young shoots and seed pods are reportedly edible when cooked, though caution is advised due to potential toxicity. Fibers from the stem can be used for cordage. Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for beneficial insects.
Permapeople description
Cynanchum laeve is a vine in the family Apocynaceae. Common names include climbing milkweed, honeyvine, and smooth swallow-wort.
Botanical description
Cynanchum laeve is a perennial herbaceous vine in the Apocynaceae family. It has smooth, twining stems that can reach lengths of 10-20 feet. The leaves are opposite, heart-shaped, and smooth. Small, white, star-shaped flowers are produced in clusters during the summer. The fruit is a slender pod that splits open to release seeds with silky hairs, aiding in wind dispersal. It is native to North America.
Companion planting
No specific companion planting information is readily available for Cynanchum laeve. It is a vigorous vine and may compete with other plants for resources. Careful management is needed to prevent it from becoming overly aggressive.
Propagation methods
Seed propagation is common, but scarification may improve germination rates. Root cuttings and division are also viable options.
History and traditions
Historically, some Native American tribes may have used similar species of Cynanchum for medicinal purposes, but specific uses for Cynanchum laeve are not well documented. The plant's fibrous stems might have been used for making cordage or textiles.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in summer (June-August). Seed pods mature in late summer and fall (August-October). Planting is best done in spring or fall. Pruning is not typically necessary but can be done to control the vine's spread.