Appearance
''Vincetoxicum hirundinaria'' can reach a height of 30–70 centimetres. Stem is erect, stout and glabrous. Flowers in whorls form a raceme. They have a diamenter of about 1 centimetre. 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.
Naming
The generic name ''Vincetoxicum'', in Latin meaning ‘conqueror of poison’, derives from the traditional use of this plant has as an antidote to poisons. The Latin species name ''hirundinaria'' and the common name ''white swallow-wort'' refer to its seedpods, that are reminiscent of a swallow's wing, or tail.
Distribution
This species is native to cliffs and slopes, especially in calcareous soils, of continental Eurasia . There are introduced populations in North America . It is not present in Great Britain and Ireland.Habitat
This species is native to cliffs and slopes, especially in calcareous soils, of continental Eurasia. There are introduced populations in North America. It is not present in Great Britain and Ireland.Cultural
''Vincetoxicum hirundinaria'' is a venomous 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.References:
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