Aristolochia gigantea
Aristolochia gigantea
Brazilian Dutchman’s Pipe
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Taxonomy
Family Aristolochiaceae · Genus Aristolochia
Description
Aristolochia gigantea, the Brazilian Dutchman’s pipe, is a vigorous tropical vine famed for its huge, maroon-and-cream, patterned blooms that smell faintly carrion-like to attract pollinators. Train it on a sturdy trellis in warm, bright conditions for a jaw‑dropping display.
Common Names
Brazilian Dutchman’s PipeGiant Dutchman’s PipeLarge-flowered AristolochiaPelican Flower
Context
nativeRegion
Atlantic Forest of eastern Brazil (Bahia to Rio de Janeiro).
usdaZones
10–12 (9b with protection)
companionPlants
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Canna indica, Alocasia spp., Heliconia spp., Tibouchina urvilleana
culturalUses
Ornamental vine for arbors, trellises, and pergolas; prized for its extraordinary, patterned flowers and conversation-piece appeal.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light to morning sun; provide dappled or afternoon shade in hot climates. Outdoors, full sun with protection from the hottest hours.
WateringKeep evenly moist; water when the top inch of soil begins to dry. Avoid waterlogging; increase frequency during heat.
SoilRich, well-drained loam with plenty of organic matter; pH 6.0–7.0. Add compost and ensure good drainage.
FertilizerFeed with a balanced or bloom-boosting fertilizer every 2–4 weeks from spring through fall; or apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring.
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity (50–70%+). Indoors, use a pebble tray or humidifier if air is dry.
TemperatureBest at 65–90°F (18–32°C). Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and all frost.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitVigorous, evergreen twining vine/climber.
Mature Size15–30 ft long (4.5–9 m) with a 6–10 ft spread, given support.
Growth RateFast.
BloomingLate spring through fall in warm climates; massive maroon-and-cream ‘pipe’ flowers that attract flies.
DormancyEvergreen in the tropics; semi-deciduous or briefly dormant in cool or dry periods.
Propagation
MethodsSemi-ripe stem cuttings, Air layering, Seed
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer for cuttings and layering; sow seeds in spring.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPrune lightly after main bloom flush to control size; remove dead or tangled shoots; train on a sturdy support early.
RepottingFor containers, up-pot every 1–2 years in spring into a large, heavy pot with a trellis or arbor.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, aphids, and mealybugs; root rot in poorly drained soils; occasional leaf spots or mildew.
ToxicityAll parts are toxic if ingested (aristolochic acids) and can cause serious kidney damage; sap may irritate skin. Not suitable as a host plant for pipevine swallowtail caterpillars.
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