Cynanchum sibiricum
Cynanchum sibiricumfam. Asclepiadaceae
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Pl. B1BF — Cynanchum sibiricum
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IOverview
Overview
Cynanchum sibiricum, commonly known as Siberian milkweed, is a perennial plant native to regions in Asia including Altay, Amur, Buryatiya, China North-Central, and Chita. This hardy plant thrives in moist environments with light or partial sun exposure, making it adaptable to various soil types such as sandy, medium, and clay. Known for its edible parts—leaves, seeds, and seedpods—it is valued both as a food source and an ornamental addition to gardens. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to grow in diverse habitats across Siberia, from West Siberia to Xinjiang, showcasing its resilience and wide-ranging adaptability.
Quick answers
What is Cynanchum sibiricum?
Cynanchum sibiricum, commonly known as Siberian milkweed, is a perennial plant native to regions in Asia including Altay, Amur, Buryatiya, China North-Central, and Chita.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cynanchum sibiricum thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial plant is hardy in temperate regions and can be propagated through seeds. For optimal growth, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight. Harvest leaves, seeds, and seedpods for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
For first-time growers
How to grow Cynanchum sibiricum for the first time
8steps
Start with basic care for Skip, focusing on sunlight and soil preparation.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip plant, garden tools, potting mix if container planting.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, ensuring containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from nursery pots to the garden or directly sow seeds in the ground after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, and protect from extreme heat or cold.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, water when soil feels dry, and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent seedpods in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to prune, not providing enough sunlight, and waiting too long to plant.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeedSeedpod
Edible uses: The leaves and seedpods of Cynanchum sibiricum are edible. Typically, they are prepared fresh or dried for use in culinary applications. Skip the specific preparation methods as details on cooking or drying techniques were not provided.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
17 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
17 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 17 native
Europe1 region
native (1)Russia
Asia4 regions
native (4)ChinaKazakhstanMongoliaSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Altay, Amur, Buryatiya, Chita, Irkutsk, Krasnoyarsk, Primorye, Tuva
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asclepiadaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asclepiadaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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XII
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