Aristolochia macrophylla (Dutchman's Pipe)


Michael's Opinion

Though this is not a favourite now, at one time it was very popular to use as a screen for porches. The large leaves and rapid growth make this a good privacy/shade plant.

Botanical Information

FamilyAristolochiaceae
GenusAristolochia
Speciesmacrophylla
CategoryWoody
TypeVine
OriginEastern United States (Appalachians)
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone4 - 8
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone5b - 6a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-23
Temperature (°F)-15
Height10 m
GrowthFast
Flowering PeriodMay

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionA spreading vine with large, oval shaped leaves.
ID CharacteristicLarge, oval heart-shaped leaves that are dark green, flowers are yellow-green. A climbing, dense, vigorous vine.
ShapeThin, green coloured vines that are long and intertwined; dense.
CultivationThrives in moist, well-drained soil. Leaves wilt in droughty conditions.
PestsProne to attack from aphids and red spider mites.
Notable SpecimensRoyal Botanical Gardens, Burlington, Ontario, Canada.
Flower/Leaf Bud DescriptionBuds are green like the stem, which makes them look as if they are covered in stem tissue.
Leaf DescriptionLeaves are about 9-22 cm in length and about the same in width. They are somewhat heart shaped and are dark green in colour.
Flower DescriptionFlowers are yellow-green and about 4 cm in length. They are shaped like a pipe, hence the common name.
Fruit DescriptionThe fruit is a 6 ribbed small capsule, about 4-6 cm in length.
Colour DescriptionDark green with green-yellow flowers highlighting the foliage.
Texture DescriptionSoft to medium textured plant.

Photographs