Dutchman's Pipe
Aristolochia durior (macrophylla) and Aristolochia tomentosa
Aristolochia macrophylla
Dutchman's Pipe A. macrophylla
A. tomentosa (left) and A. macrophylla with early autumn colouring (right).
A. tomentosa on three vertical wire ropes as per System 4040.
Aristolochia macrophylla on tension cable
A. tomentosa
Aristolochia macrophylla
A. macrophylla
The Dutchman's Pipe is a twining climber much appreciated for its lush, large and roof tile-like arranged leaves. The plant is also known to “transform” down pipes and lightning conductors! Apart from regular watering, it requires little maintenance, and pruning is almost unnecessary. Available from nurseries is predominantly A. macrophylla with the non-hairy shoots, but frequently other species are sold under this name.
Requirements
Sunny (full sun) to shaded Position, protection from wind beneficial. Nutrient rich soil, fresh and moist with regular water provision, especially in sunny positions, to balance the high evapo-transpiration rate. The plants tolerate nearly everything, as long as they are watered regularly. Fertilising is beneficial. Aristolochia tomentosa (Woolly Dutchman's Pipe) is hardier and requires less attention.
Growth and Leaves
A twining climber, this plant forms dense leaf walls or green roofs, but can also cascade down like a bridal train. A. macrophylla can develop extremely large leaves, A. tomentosa is generally smaller leaved. Initially, the plant uses its energy mainly for growing new leaves, hence yearly new shoots are rather sparse, especially during the first few years. Foliage from May to November. Doesn't look “straggly” in winter, as the sparse new shoots keep their decorative (light-) green colour. The older, perennial shoots are light grey. Not susceptible to fungal diseases!
Flower and Fruit
The insignificant purplish or yellow-green flowers look a bit like an old-fashioned smoker's pipe and appear in June / July, the fruit capsules resemble small cucumbers or capsule-like fruit.
Growth Support Systems
Best to use a vertical system with wires at intervals of approx. 30-40cm. Horizontal wires may require weaving in of the shoots. See below for suitable systems. Medium, best Heavy Duty Growth Support Systems, in case of pot plants, a Light system may suffice.
Pruning
Prune / thin out every 1-3 years.
Woolly Dutchman's Pipe Aristolochia tomentosa
Aristolochia macrophylla
Dutchman's Pipe A.macrophylla on 3 parallel wire ropes
A. macrophylla
Small-leaved Dutchman's Pipe growing as planned into a trellis designed to provide shade.
Woolly Dutchman's Pipe Aristolochia tomentosa
Woolly Dutchman's Pipe
Dutchman's Pipe in pot, winter image
Fruit capsule of Aristolochia
New shoots in spring
A. macrophylla on wire ropes |
A. macrophylla |
A. tomentosa |
A. tomentosa |
Flowers of A. macrophylla |
Flower of A. tomentosa |
A. macrophylla in autumn |
