Aristolochiaceae - Botanical Family

Large vine with simple oblong leaf. Older plants have a tendency to flower in mass at the base of the plant. Such "terrestrial" flowers never set fruit. Countrywide distribution, but appears to prefer limestone-based soils. Larval foodplant for butterflies.

This is a plant which does everything to live up to the name given to it by the botanists. A large vigorous climber with 6-inch rounded leaves and bold clusters of highly distinctive Dutchman's pipe-shaped flowers in highly variable green, white, or brownish-red patterned tones, each inflorescence reaching up to 12 inches in length - and that's a lot of bloom! And that's not all! These are followed by matchingly large seed capsules. A flower arranger's dream, they are about five inches long, big enough almost to be wired for a miniature 40 watt bulb, and, combining suggestions solicited around the office, like a Chinese lantern made of a dried (admittedly only six-legged) octopus skin. A challenge for you and your greenhouse.

Aristolochia peruviana is a climber that can reach heights of 9-11 feet. It thrives in full sun or semi-shade and has a moderate water requirement, making it suitable for cooler climates. This plant is known for its exotic yellow and orange flowers, which attract both butterflies and hummingbirds.

However, it is important to keep in mind that Aristolochia peruviana can be slow growing and temperamental, so patience and understanding are key in its cultivation. To successfully grow this plant in a pot in cold climates, it is recommended to use a soil mix that contains some perlite for better drainage, and care should be taken to avoid overwatering, which can lead to the death of the plant. It is also important to expose the pot to at least six hours of sunlight, while also providing some shade to protect the plant from intense midday heat.

Aristolochia peruviana is a beautiful addition to any garden, container, or as a houseplant. With the right care, this majestic climbing vine can add a touch of exotic beauty to any space for years to come. In terms of cultivation, Aristolochias are undemanding plants that prefer well-draining soil and sun, though they can tolerate some shade in hotter inland areas. Any pruning necessary for shaping or containing the plants should be done in late winter or early spring. Overall, these plants are easy to cultivate and growth can be easily tamed.

Aristolochia philippinensis is an erect, evergreen shrub growing up to 1 metre tall with old stems up to 4cm in diameter.

This species containes aristolochic acid, which is known to have toxic side effects in larger doses. Acute toxic manifestations are tachycardia, increased respiratory rate, ataxia, sedation and marked vasodilation. Short-term chronic toxic effects include hepatotoxicity, marked renal damage and mild hematologic dyscracias.

Distinctive yet unusual, this great vine produces pipe-like flowers netted purple and brown it's leaves are light green and heart shaped. A spectacular show when in bloom! Does tend to have a very strange odor from the flowers. Very showy! Cream and maroon. Papery capsule containing many seeds.

Aristolochia tagala is a fast-growing vine which thrives best in full sun to semi-shade areas and requires regular water. The plant has an unusual dark maroon color and its long, narrow flowers make it a popular choice in the garden as it is attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

When planting Aristolochia tagala, ensure there is well-drained soil with good water retention. For cold regions, the plant can be grown in pots with good drainage and kept in a sunny spot during the warm months, and brought indoors during the cold weather. While indoors, place the pot in a warm spot and keep it watered, but not too much as the plant does not tolerate wet feet. Fertilization should be done sparingly. Pruning should be done regularly to keep the plant in shape.

Overall, Aristolochia tagala is an easy to grow plant that provides a great addition to any garden or home. Its unusual dark maroon color and its attractive flowers make it a popular choice with gardeners and its medicinal properties make it a great option in helping to treat ailments.

The caterpillars of two rare butterflies, the Common Birdwing and Common Rose, feed on the leaves of this plant.

The plant is used medicinally. The Malays apply it to the head to treat fever. In Indonesia, poultice are made with leaves of the species; it is applied to the swollen abdomen or limbs. In the Philippines, snake bites and malaria is treated with the plant. In India, the roots are considered a tonic, carminative and emmenagogue. In Hong Kong, this species is under protection.

Aristolochia tricaudata is a large, multi-stemmed and sprawling evergreen shrub reaching 5-10 feet tall, making perfect grown to semi-shade as a specimen or natural hedge. It is highly rewarding as an ornamental, with unique, longitudinal striped leaves and annular stem joints - leaves are borne in alternating whorls of three, creating an unusual 3-2-3 sequence.

Aristolochia tricaudata is a great choice for the summer garden. In mid-summer this large shrub is smothered with unusual crimson, vinous flowers that 1 to 2 inches in size, possess about three tails. A good choice for USDA Zones 9-11, this shrub prefers regular water and can withstand quite a bit of dryness without suffering much damage.

Aristolochia tricaudata is a relative easy to grow and care for a plant. Simply give it regular water and semi-shaded or sunny environment, and this species will return great rewards with its flowers and foliage. This species will thrives in soil that is slightly acidic, rich and well-draining. Established plants are moderately tolerant of drought and can handle longer periods between waterings when necessary.

In colder regions, it can be grown in pots and then moved between outside shelter in winter. Provide your plant with protection from cold winter winds and make sure to bring it inside when temperatures dip below freezing. Water less frequently during winter months, but make sure to not let the soil dry out completely. When the temperature outside is consistently over 10°C, you can start to move this species outside, gradually stimulating its growth.

With striking leaves and its unusual crimson, vinous flowers, Aristolochia tricaudata is an awesome addition to any garden. This hardy shrub can take some neglect and still give you grand rewards come mid-summer. It is an evergreen plant that will keep adding texture to your garden all year round.

Pale green nepenthes shaped flowers striped tan with a long tail. Deeply lobed glossy leaves with light veins. It is quite adaptable and can be grown in subtropical areas, tropical areas, and any place where temperatures don't frequently drop below 30F. It also does well in low light conditions and can be grown indoors. Will tolerate high humidity or arid climates with little rain, although irrigation should be provided. Grow in full sun or shade.

It is pollinated by Ceratopogonid flies; these are the small, blood-sucking flies that pester humans and other mammals in the humid summer. The flowers of Aristolochia watsonii resemble a mouse's ear-translucent funnels with fur and veins-and give off a musty odor. The fly apparently expects to find a blood meal, and instead is trapped inside the flower tube overnight. During the night the flower releases pollen. The following morning the flower releases the pollen-covered fly. If the fly visits another flower it effects pollination.