Spotted Dutchman's Pipe
aristolochia rotunda
Also known as: ["Round-leaved Birthwort","Spotted Birthwort"]
Overview
A deciduous, climbing vine with heart-shaped leaves and inconspicuous, pipe-shaped flowers that are typically greenish-brown with dark spots.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Aristolochiales |
| Family: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Genus: | Aristolochia |
| Botanical Name: | Aristolochia rotunda |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: partial shade garden bed or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
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 old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade but avoid direct sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid extreme fluctuations.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize during active growth; reduce in winter; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or node; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; 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 directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth; yellowing or browning of leaves.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dormancy; roots can become damaged in freezing conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping; reduced vigor; may drop flowers or buds.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; avoid placing near heat sources.
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; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to aristolochic acids, which can cause acute kidney injury and chronic renal failure. The toxins disrupt renal function and may lead to long-term health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Aristolochia rotunda can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and kidney damage due to aristolochic acids. The toxins are particularly harmful to renal function, potentially leading to irreversible kidney failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAristolochia rotunda contains aristolochic acids, which are nephrotoxic and carcinogenic. Ingestion can lead to severe kidney damage, aristolochic acid nephropathy, and an increased risk of urinary tract cancers. The toxins interfere with cellular DNA, causing long-term physiological harm.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aristolochia rotunda toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: No, it is shade tolerant and prefers partial shade.
Q: Does Aristolochia rotunda have any medicinal uses?
A: Historically, it was used in traditional medicine, but modern use is discouraged due to its toxicity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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