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fragrant swallow-wort

Scientific Name: Cynanchum northropiae

Family: Asclepiadaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Vine, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Fragrant Swallow-wort (Cynanchum northropiae)

Fragrant Swallow-wort, scientifically known as Cynanchum northropiae, is a perennial vine recognized for its fragrant, five-petalled flowers. Several species share the common name Swallow-wort.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some species of swallow-wort produce sap and may have historical uses.

Considerations for Children

  • Some species of swallow-wort produce sap and may have historical uses.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cynanchum northropiae (Schltr.) Alain
  • Common Names: Fragrant Swallow-wort
  • Synonyms: Metastelma northropiae
  • Family: Apocynaceae (formerly Asclepiadaceae), subfamily Asclepiadoideae (implied through mention of Calotropis procera's family)
  • Group: Dicot

Distribution and Habitat

  • Fragrant Swallow-wort is found in Florida (FL), including Bahia Honda State Park, Bahia Honda Key, Monroe County.
  • Some European species of Swallow-wort have been found in North America, including C. northropiae.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Fragrant Swallow-wort is a perennial vine with a non-branching stem.
  • The flowers are approximately one-quarter inch wide, five-petalled, and fragrant, with some describing the scent as vanilla-like.
  • Leaves are smooth and lance-shaped, turning colors in the fall.

Ecological Role

  • Black swallow-wort (Vincetoxicum nigrum or Cynanchum louiseae) is identified as an invasive species that can threaten Monarch butterflies. Monarchs will oviposit on black swallow-wort in the laboratory, however.

Quirky Facts

  • The scent of Fragrant Swallow-wort has been described as a delicious vanilla fragrance.

Related Resources

  • Discover Life provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Cynanchum northropiae.
  • ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a related resource for taxonomic information.
  • Garden Guides provides plant and gardening information.