White Bryony

Bryonia alba

Physical Characteristics

Bryonia alba is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 4 m (13ft 1in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from May to June. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Europe to W. Asia - Iran.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Hedgerow;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: One report says that the young shoots are edible[2], though caution is advised[K]. See the notes above on toxicity. The starch of the root is a famine food for extending bread flour after removing the acrid element. The young shoots are eaten. Caution: It is probably very poisonous [1b].

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Homeopathy Urinary The root is cathartic, hydrogogue, irritant, pectoral and purgative[4]. The root is harvested in the autumn and can be used either fresh or dried[4]. It should be used with great caution, see notes above on toxicity. The fresh root, gathered before the plant comes into flower, is made into a homeopathic remedy[232]. This is used in the treatment of a wide range of complaints[232]. It is said to be one of the best diuretics and an excellent remedy for gravel as well as all other obstructions and disorders of the urinary passage[4].

Known Hazards

All parts of the plant, and especially the root, are poisonous[232]. The root can cause severe diarrhoea and vomiting, resulting in death within a matter of hours[232].