Blodgett’s Swallow-wort: A Rare Florida Native You Shouldn’t Plant
Meet Blodgett’s swallow-wort (Cynanchum blodgettii), one of Florida’s most elusive native plants. While you might be drawn to the idea of growing this unique perennial herb, there are some very important reasons why this particular native should stay in the wild rather than in your garden.
What Makes This Plant Special
Blodgett’s swallow-wort is a perennial forb, meaning it’s a soft-stemmed plant that comes back year after year without developing woody tissue like trees and shrubs. As a member of the milkweed family, it’s related to some of our most beloved native plants, but this particular species is in a category all its own.
You might occasionally see this plant listed under its scientific synonym, Metastelma blodgettii, but regardless of the name, we’re talking about the same rare Florida endemic.
Where You’ll Find It (But Probably Won’t)
This native plant calls Florida home and only Florida. It’s what botanists call an endemic species, meaning it naturally occurs nowhere else in the world. Its extremely limited geographic range is already a red flag for conservation concerns.
- Species observed
- No observations
The Rarity Reality Check
Here’s where things get serious: Blodgett’s swallow-wort has a Global Conservation Status of S1S2, which puts it in the critically imperiled to imperiled category. In plain English? This plant is hanging on by a thread in the wild, and every individual plant matters for the species’ survival.
This rarity status means that even if you could find seeds or plants for sale (which you likely won’t), you absolutely shouldn’t attempt to grow it. These plants need to remain in their natural habitats where they have the best chance of survival and reproduction.
Why This Isn’t the Native Plant for Your Garden
While we’re huge advocates for native plant gardening, Blodgett’s swallow-wort presents a unique situation:
- Its extreme rarity means removing any genetic material from wild populations could harm the species
- There’s virtually no information available about cultivation requirements
- No reputable native plant nurseries carry this species
- Its specific habitat needs are likely very difficult to replicate in home gardens
Better Native Alternatives
Instead of pursuing this rare species, consider these fantastic Florida native alternatives that will give you similar benefits without conservation concerns:
- Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa) – Another milkweed family member with stunning orange flowers
- White wild indigo (Amorpha fruticosa) – A native legume that supports diverse wildlife
- Coontie (Zamia integrifolia) – Florida’s only native cycad
- Firebush (Hamelia patens) – A native shrub beloved by butterflies and hummingbirds
How You Can Help
While you can’t grow Blodgett’s swallow-wort in your garden, you can still support its conservation:
- Support organizations working to protect Florida’s natural habitats
- Choose other native Florida plants for your landscape
- Spread awareness about the importance of rare plant conservation
- Report any sightings to local botanical organizations or state agencies
Remember, the best thing we can do for rare native plants like Blodgett’s swallow-wort is to protect their wild habitats and choose readily available native alternatives for our gardens. There are plenty of other fantastic Florida natives that will thrive in cultivation while supporting local wildlife – let’s give those plants the spotlight they deserve!