Native Dutchman’s Pipe
Origin of name
Family: ARISTOLOCHIACEAE
- Aristolochia meaning “best childbirth“
- acuminata meaning “tapering to a point“
Occurrence
A robust, perennial vine of rainforest & monsoon forest from Mackay north to Cape York. Extends to drier scrubs.
Young vines prefer dappled/heavy shade – mature vines will seek the sun & form dense mats at canopy tops/sides. Grows in a variety of soils, but should be kept moist (esp. when young) and well-drained. Can be pruned, but cut stems may need support for climbing.
Appearance
Vine lacks tendrils, but will scramble to treetops. In drier areas, stems may die back to rootstock in the dry. Flowers are purple/brown and tubular, and arise on new growth.
Food plant for caterpillars of Cairns Birdwing, Cape York Birdwing, Big Greasy, Clearwing Swallowtail, and Red-bodied Swallowtail Butterflies.
