White swallow-wort Plant Care

White swallow-wort (Vincetoxicum anomalum) belongs to the Apocynaceae family within the Vincetoxicum genus. White swallow-wort is native to the island of Bioko and Cameroon in the west of Africa, and from Uganda to KwaZulu-Natal and the island of Mayotte in the east of Africa. White swallow-wort is also known as Pale swallow-wort, Climbing milkweed.

White swallow-wort displays a vining, twining habit growth habit, reaching up to 2 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. White swallow-wort produces small, star-shaped white flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.

Vincetoxicum anomalum requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

White swallow-wort thrives in bright indirect to partial shade. Avoid placing White swallow-wort in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Vincetoxicum anomalum grows best at temperatures of 60–80°F. White swallow-wort prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Well-draining loamy soil mix with added perlite for improved drainage. Good drainage is essential for White swallow-wort to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed White swallow-wort every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 1-2 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

White swallow-wort can be propagated through seeds, division of rhizomes. Similar propagation techniques also apply to black swallowwort plant care, which shares the same genus.

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White swallow-wort is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, mealybugs. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

White swallow-wort grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10a – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10a. White swallow-wort is native to the island of Bioko and Cameroon in the west of Africa, and from Uganda to KwaZulu-Natal and the island of Mayotte in the east of Africa. In cooler regions, grow White swallow-wort as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.