Aristolochia gigantea

Sunset

Aristolochia gigantea, photo courtesy of Steven A. Gunther

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Zones 21-24, H1, H2

Full, Partial

Ample, Moderate

Giant Dutchman's Pipe
Aristolochiaceae
Evergreen, Vines, Flowers

ARISTOLOCHIA

Twining vines noted for curiously shaped flowers in rather sober colors; they resemble curved pipes with flared bowls or birds with bent necks. Vigorous growers; thin out unwanted growth in late dormant season or wait until after bloom. If plant is too thick and tangled for selective thinning, cut it to the ground before spring growth begins.

Aristolochia gigantea

From Panamaand Brazil. Stems grow 15–20 ft. long. Triangular to heart-shaped, dark green leaves can reach 4 in. across. In summer to early winter, stems bearspectacular flowers to 1 ft. long and half as wide; blossoms are burgundy with white netting and a golden throat. They have an unusual fragrance reminiscent of lemony furniture polish. A. g. ‘Brasiliensis’ (A. brasiliensis)has flowers to 10 in. long and 7 in. wide with an intricate netting pattern of white and brown. Both grow best in frost-freeareas. Sun or partial shade.