Dutchman's pipe
aristolochia macrophylla
Also known as: ["Pelican flower","Giant Dutchman's pipe"]
Overview
A climbing vine with large, heart-shaped leaves and unusual pipe-shaped flowers, known for its distinctive appearance and climbing habit.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Aristolochiales |
| Family: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Genus: | Aristolochia |
| Botanical Name: | Aristolochia macrophylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shady garden area or large container with support for climbing
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid heavy clay or waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
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 to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide dappled light in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
rich, moist, well-draining loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid overwatering; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); thrives in moderate temperatures; sensitive to extreme cold or heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate warmth year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes; softwood cuttings root most readily.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; avoid leaving stubs.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or loppers for larger stems.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; remove debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
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 for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or leaf drop in cold; scorching or stunted growth in heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; protect from drafts and frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; 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); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicAristolochia macrophylla is toxic to cats due to the presence of aristolochic acids, which can cause severe kidney damage and increase the risk of cancer. Cats are particularly sensitive to nephrotoxic substances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe aristolochic acids in Aristolochia macrophylla are toxic to dogs, causing kidney damage and potential carcinogenic effects. Ingestion can lead to acute kidney injury and long-term health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAristolochia macrophylla 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 macrophylla toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: How does the Dutchman's pipe get its name?
A: The name refers to the distinctive pipe-shaped flowers that resemble Dutch smoking pipes.
Q: Does Aristolochia macrophylla require a support structure?
A: Yes, it is a climbing vine and requires a trellis or support to grow properly.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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