Watch out for this prolific, invasive plant found throughout Ontario
Ontario’s ecology faces a threat from the dog-strangling vine, an invasive plant spreading seeds at the end of summer. Gardeners can do their part now to prevent its expansion.
With summer nearing its end, an invasive species is now sprouting up in Ontario.
Formally recognized as the European swallow-wort, the more common moniker for the plant is the morbidly named dog-strangling vine (Vincetoxicum rossicum). Despite the name's ominous tone if you have a pet, the real concern is the significant threat the vine poses to native plants and habitats.
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The dog-strangling vine is native to Europe and was introduced in Canada as a garden plant in the 1800s. The name originates from the plant’s synonymous genus, Cynanchum, derived from the Greek words "dog," kyon, and "strangle," anchein.
According to the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), the vine can grow up to two metres long and create dense thickets or grow on other plants. Monarch butterflies have been known to confuse the plants with their milkweed host plant and lay eggs on it, but the larvae can’t survive. The plant invades forests, stream banks, grasslands and alvar habitats (limestone plain).
While a leaf-feeding moth (Hypena opulenta) from the Ukraine area was approved for release in North America as a biological control, there are things gardeners can do to help reduce its spread.
The plant produces bean-like pods that should be snipped off if discovered in late summer, to prevent its spread. Any plants discovered in your area should be cleared out. Don't compost the pods or any plant parts since they can easily survive and regenerate in a fertilizer heap.
It is illegal in Ontario for anyone to sell, plant or purposely spread dog-strangling vine.
Aside from Ontario, the plant can be found in B.C. and Quebec.
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Thumbnail courtesy of Tyler Smith.
With files from various staff at The Weather Network.
