Bai Wei (Cynanchum atratum)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. It probably does not have any special cultivation requirements and will probably succeed in most soils in a sunny position[K]. See also the records for C. stratum which might be a mis-spelling for this species.
Propagation
Seed - sow spring in the greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in spring.
Edible uses
Young stem and leaves - cooked. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Young seedpods - thoroughly boiled. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.
Medicinal uses
The root is depurative, diuretic and febrifuge. The stem is antitussive and sialagogue.
Habitat
Mountains all over Japan.
Native range
E. Asia - Northern China, Japan.