Swallow-wort: A Complex Native Plant Story
When it comes to native gardening, few plants present as complex a story as swallow-wort (Cynanchum). This perennial herb has a fascinating but somewhat confusing relationship with North American ecosystems, making it a plant that deserves careful consideration before adding to your garden.
What Exactly Is Swallow-wort?
Swallow-wort is a perennial forb – essentially a non-woody plant that comes back year after year. As a member of the milkweed family, it shares some characteristics with its more famous cousins, but don’t expect the same showy flowers or obvious wildlife benefits. This plant tends to fly under the radar with its more modest appearance.
The Native vs. Non-Native Puzzle
Here’s where things get interesting (and a bit confusing). Swallow-wort has a mixed native status across North America. While it’s considered non-native and introduced in Canada and most of the continental United States, it’s actually native to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This plant has shown remarkable adaptability, reproducing spontaneously in the wild and persisting without human help across much of the continent.
Where You’ll Find Swallow-wort
This adaptable plant has spread across an impressive range, growing in states from Alabama to Wisconsin, and from coast to coast. You can find it in British Columbia and Ontario in Canada, throughout most U.S. states, and in its native Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands territories.
Should You Plant Swallow-wort?
This is where gardeners need to think carefully. While swallow-wort isn’t officially listed as invasive or noxious, its ability to reproduce spontaneously and persist suggests it can be quite aggressive in the right conditions. If you’re committed to true native gardening in the continental U.S., this probably isn’t your best choice.
Better Native Alternatives
Instead of swallow-wort, consider these native alternatives that offer similar or better benefits:
- Common milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) for monarch butterfly support
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) for pollinator appeal
- Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) for long-lasting blooms
- Local native wildflowers specific to your region
If You Do Choose to Grow It
Should you decide to include swallow-wort in your garden, here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Be prepared for a plant that may spread more than you initially planned
- Monitor its growth carefully to prevent unwanted expansion
- Consider container growing to control its spread
- Research your local regulations – some areas may have restrictions
Growing Conditions
Like many successful colonizers, swallow-wort is fairly adaptable to different growing conditions. While specific requirements can vary among the different species within the genus, most tend to be relatively low-maintenance once established.
The Bottom Line
Swallow-wort presents a classic case of just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. While it’s not officially problematic everywhere, its spreading nature and non-native status in most areas make it a questionable choice for dedicated native gardeners. Your garden space is valuable – consider filling it with plants that offer clear benefits to local wildlife and ecosystems while supporting your region’s natural heritage.
Remember, the best native garden is one that works with your local ecosystem, not against it. When in doubt, consult with local native plant societies or extension services to find the perfect native alternatives for your specific area.
