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Arizona swallow-wort
Scientific Name: Cynanchum arizonicum
Family: Asclepiadaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Vine, Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Arizona Swallow-wort (Cynanchum arizonicum)
The Arizona swallow-wort, scientifically known as Cynanchum arizonicum, is also commonly referred to as Arizona climbing milkweed.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant is a vine, and some vines can be tempting for pets to chew on.
- As a member of the milkweed family, it may contain sap.
Considerations for Children
- This plant is a vine, and some vines can be tempting for children to play with.
- As a member of the milkweed family, it may contain sap.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cynanchum arizonicum (A. Gray) Shinners
- Family: Asclepiadaceae (Milkweed Family)
- Synonym: Metastelma arizonicum (Arizona Swallow-wort, Arizona Climbing Milkweed)
- Rank: Species
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to Arizona, New Mexico, and Sonora, Mexico.
- Found on rocky slopes.
- Also reported in California and Utah.
Morphological Characteristics
- Vining stems that often wrap around each other.
- Slightly woody base.
- Thick, narrow (linear) leaves arranged oppositely.
Ecological Role
- The related black swallow-wort (Cynanchum louiseae) and pale swallow-wort (Cynanchum rossicum) are considered invasive in North America, growing over other vegetation and blocking light.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Monarch Butterfly larvae (Danaus plexippus) are known to utilize the invasive Black Swallow-wort (Vincetoxicum nigrum) as a diet source.