Description
A vigorous climber growing up to 10 m tall, twining its shoots around supports. It belongs to the milkweed family (Asclepiadaceae). It has attractive, broadly lance-shaped leaves resembling those of white willow, dark green and glossy, turning yellow in autumn. Its small, purple-brown flowers of very intricate structure open from June to August. Damaged shoots exude a milky sap.
Requirements
Silk vine is a valuable but still little-known climber for both public green spaces and private gardens. It looks good planted by arbours, pergolas, gates, fences or old trees. As it produces root suckers, it is better not to plant it among valuable plants.
Care
Silk vine likes sunny positions, tolerates average soils, is sufficiently frost-hardy and has no problems with diseases or pests. It needs no special care; its shoots are cut back when they grow too much. In March–April it is good to remove dead shoots, overcrowded ones and those that get in the way of neighbouring plants.