Bryonia alba aka White Bryony

Bryonia alba, or white bryony, belongs to the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae. Its native range spans central, eastern and southeastern Europe to central Asia. It grows in temperate regions, in woods and vineyards. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. This perennial climber grows from a tuberous root system. Its stems can reach about 13 feet [4 metres].

The plant grows fast and uses tendrils to grip nearby plants. These supports let its stems climb through surrounding growth. PFAF places it in woodland gardens and hedgerows. Its flowers open from May to June, and bees pollinate them. Each flower is either male or female. In northern parts of its range, one plant bears both sexes. In southern areas, male and female flowers may grow on separate plants. In that case, seed production needs plants of both sexes.

White bryony grows in sun or partial shade. It prefers moist soil with good drainage. It can grow in sandy, loamy or clay soils. Neutral to mildly alkaline ground suits it, while wild plants avoid acid soils. PFAF describes it as easy to grow and gives USDA zones 5–9. Its rapid growth and climbing habit call for care around nearby plants. PFAF also flags its potential to become a weed.

Seeds and division offer ways to raise new plants. PFAF recommends sowing fresh seed in a cold frame when ripe. Stored seed can go into a cold frame in late winter. Young seedlings can then move into pots once large enough. Keep them in a greenhouse through their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer, after frost risk passes. Established plants can also be divided in early spring.

All parts are poisonous, with the root posing a grave risk. Eating the root can cause severe vomiting and diarrhoea. Poisoning can prove fatal within hours. Reports describe eating young shoots and using processed root starch during famine. These records do not make the plant safe to eat. PFAF lists leaves and shoots as edible parts but warns about poisoning. The root also has a history of medicinal and homeopathic use. Those uses do not establish safe home treatment.