Birthwort
aristolochia clematitis
Also known as: ["European birthwort","pipevine"]
Overview
A climbing vine with distinctive pipe-shaped flowers, historically used in medicine but now recognized as highly toxic.
Benefits & Perks
["unique flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Aristolochiales |
| Family: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Genus: | Aristolochia |
| Botanical Name: | Aristolochia clematitis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden border or trellis support
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid extreme fluctuations.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop; leaf scorch in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use shade cloth if outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to aristolochic acids, which can cause acute kidney injury and gastrointestinal upset. Chronic exposure may result in irreversible kidney damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Aristolochia clematitis by dogs can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and kidney damage due to aristolochic acids. Prolonged exposure may lead to chronic kidney disease.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAristolochia clematitis contains aristolochic acids, which are nephrotoxic and carcinogenic. Ingestion can lead to severe kidney damage, aristolochic acid nephropathy, and increased risk of urinary tract cancers.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aristolochia clematitis safe for pets?
A: No, it is highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the distinctive features of this plant?
A: It has pipe-shaped flowers and is a climbing vine.
Q: Is this plant used in modern medicine?
A: No, due to its toxicity, it is no longer used in modern medicine.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
