Bai Wei (Cynanchum atratum)

Family: Asclepiadaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Cynanchum atratum is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary 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. — 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.

Habitat & North American Range

Mountains all over Japan. Sunny meadows from the lowlands to elevations of 500 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)