Vincetoxicum hirundinaria

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Vincetoxicum hirundinaria
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae
Genus: Vincetoxicum
Species:
V. hirundinaria
Binomial name
Vincetoxicum hirundinaria
Medik.
Synonyms[1]
  • Asclepias vincetoxicum L.
  • Cynanchum vincetoxicum (L.) Pers.

Vincetoxicum hirundinaria, commonly named white swallow-wort, is a long-lived

herbaceous perennial of the genus Vincetoxicum in the family Apocynaceae
.

Etymology

The generic name Vincetoxicum, in Latin meaning ‘conqueror of poison’, derives from the traditional use of this plant as an antidote to poisons.[2] The Latin species name hirundinaria (from hirundo, meaning swallow) and the common name white swallow-wort refer to its seedpods, that are reminiscent of a swallow's wing, or tail.

Description

Vincetoxicum hirundinaria can reach a height of 30–70 centimetres (12–28 in). Stem is erect, stout and glabrous. Flowers in whorls form a raceme. They have a diamenter of about 1 centimetre (0.39 in). Corolla has five white petals. Calyx is composed by five fused, sharp-pointed sepals. Leaves are opposite, ovate to lanceolate and short-stalked. Fruits reach a length of about 5 cm and contain many seeds showing a tuft of white hairs. Flowering time lasts from June to the end of July.[2]

Distribution and habitat

This species is native to cliffs and slopes, especially in

calcareous soils, of continental Eurasia (including some Baltic islands).[3] There are introduced populations in North America (Ontario, Michigan, and New York).[1] It is not present in Great Britain and Ireland
.

Human culture

Vincetoxicum hirundinaria is a poisonous plant traditionally used in treating diseases and in magic. The plant was mentioned by Pedanius Dioscorides as a traditional plant used by Dacians and known as the "herb of animals", believed to open any locked door.[citation needed]

Gallery

  • Close-up on flowers
    Close-up on flowers
  • Seeds and hairy wool
    Seeds and hairy wool
  • Fruit and seeds
    Fruit and seeds
  • Illustration
    Illustration

References

  1. ^ a b "Cynanchum vincetoxicum (L.) Pers".
  2. ^ a b Nature Gate
  3. PMID 14678943
    .

External links


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