Aristolochia littoralis, the calico flower or elegant Dutchman's pipe, is a species of evergreen vine belonging to the family Aristolochiaceae.

Etymology

The scientific name Aristolochia was developed from Ancient Greek aristos άριστος best + locheia λοχεία childbirth, childbed, as in ancient times the plant was thought to be effective against infections caused by childbirth. The species Latin name littoralis means coastal.

Description

Aristolochia littoralis is a climbing vine that can reach about 3 - 4.5 m in length. The slender stems are woody and the leaves are bright green, cordate, amplexicaul, 7 - 9 cm long and 5 - 10 cm wide, forming a dense attractive foliage. Flowers are heart-shaped, greenish yellow with intricate purplish-brown markings. These unusual flowers are about 7 - 8 cm long, grow solitary in the leaf axils and resemble Sherlock Holmes's pipe (hence the common name of "Dutchman's pipe"). The inner surface of the flared mouth is completely purplish-brown. The flowering period extends through all summer. These plants are pollinated by flies which are attracted by the unpleasant carrion-like odor produced by the flowers. The numerous winged seeds are borne in dry dehiscent capsules that split like small parachutes. As the seeds are winged they are easily dispersed by wind. Plants in the related genus Pararistolochia differ by having fleshy moist fruit that do not split. This plant contains aristolochic acid, a toxic alkaloid.

Distribution

The vining plant is native to southern and western South America. It is found in: It is an invasive species in Australia and in the southern United States. In Australia it is fatal to the caterpillars of two butterflies, the Cairns birdwing (Ornithoptera euphorion) and of the threatened Richmond birdwing (O. richmondia), and threatens to displace their proper host plant, A. tagala.

Habitat

Aristolochia littoralis prefers acid-neutral soils (pH 5.5 – 7.0) and average moisture, in part sun to shade, at an elevation of about 0 - 1150 m.

Cultivation

This subtropical plant requires a minimum temperature of 7 °C, and in temperate regions is grown under glass. It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

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