Species white swallow-wort

white swallow-wort

Vincetoxicum hirundinaria

White swallow-wort (Vincetoxicum hirundinaria) is an invasive perennial flowering plant native to parts of Europe and Asia. It prefers moist habitats and is found in fields, ditches, and woodland edges. The flowers are star-shaped with five white petals and dark purple anthers. This plant can reach up to five feet in height and has long, thin, oval-shaped leaves. White swallow-wort contains toxins and some animals avoid consumption. It is not suitable for human consumption and can be a nuisance to property owners.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Greenish-white Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

White swallow-wort should be watered when the soil becomes dry to the touch. It is important to water the plant deeply, as shallow watering can cause the shallow rooted plant to dry out quickly. When watering, water until the soil is moist, but not overly saturated. Aim to water White swallow-wort about once or twice a week during the growing season when temperatures remain above 60°F (15°C). In hotter climates, additional water may be needed more frequently. In cooler climates or during the winter months when temperatures drop, water less frequently.

sunlight

White swallow-wort is a perennial plant that needs at least 6 hours of full sunlight each day. It prefers partial to full sun, and partial shade can help to protect it from excessive heat during hot summers. This plant does best in well-draining soil with a neutral or slightly acidic pH level. It also prefers cooler climates with moderate to high humidity. When temperatures drop to 50 degrees Fahrenheit or below, the plant goes dormant and may appear to die. However, it will come back in spring and summer when the temperature rises.

pruning

White swallow-wort (Vincetoxicum hirundinaria) should be pruned heavily once a year to prevent it from becoming too woody and ungainly. Pruning can be done anytime between late spring and early summer while the plant is in full leaf and actively growing. Start by removing older stems and any shoots that have risen above the desired height, then prune back the remaining stems and branches to the desired size. Remove any dead, disease or weak areas of the plant. Pruning white swallow-wort in the correct way will lead to more abundant flowers and a more compact, attractive plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

White swallow-wort typically starts flowering in June.

Hardiness Map