Woolly Pipevine
aristolochia tomentosa
Also known as: ["Western Pipevine","Fuzzy Pipevine"]
Overview
A deciduous woody vine with heart-shaped leaves and unusual pipe-shaped flowers, native to eastern North America.
Benefits & Perks
["deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Aristolochiales |
| Family: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Genus: | Aristolochia |
| Botanical Name: | Aristolochia tomentosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid 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; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during dormancy.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or dappled sunlight daily, with protection from intense afternoon sun in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; provide shade during peak heat; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; monitor for leaf scorch.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, rich loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay mixes; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in stable, warm conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
monthly during active growth, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded stems to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune at the right time, make clean cuts, dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, 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; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are 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; topdress with organic matter annually.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or chlorosis in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location, insulate roots with mulch, and avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently without saturating soil.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use appropriate fertilizer, dilute correctly, avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and early summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly during growing season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are also highly sensitive to aristolochic acids, which can induce severe kidney damage and carcinogenic effects. The toxins impair renal function and can lead to fatal outcomes if not treated promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDogs are highly susceptible to aristolochic acid toxicity, which can cause acute kidney injury, renal failure, and long-term carcinogenic effects. The toxins disrupt renal function and can lead to irreversible damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAristolochia tomentosa 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 DNA repair mechanisms and cause oxidative stress, leading to chronic renal failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aristolochia tomentosa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Aristolochia tomentosa suitable for beginners?
A: No, it requires moderate care and is better suited for enthusiasts.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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