Also known as Aristolochia durior

Quick Facts about Aristolochia Macrophylla (Dutchman’s Pipevine):

Host plant for the beautiful Pipevine Swallowtail

Also known as Aristolochia durior

Perennial woody, twining vine dies back in the winter

Hardy in USDA zones 4-8

Likes full sun to part shade (especially in hotter climates)

Prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soil but will do fine in average soil, does not like dry soil

Native to Eastern and Southeastern US, but is often cultivated outside its natural range

Fast growing vine with large heart-shaped leaves. Can reach 20-30 feet

Great on a trellis, arbor, fence, for screening or quick cover or sprawling up trees over shrubs

Propagated from seed or cuttings.

There are several different methods listed to germinate these seeds:  One method suggests soaking in warm water for 24 hours then planting about 3/8 inch deep.  Another recommends 1-3 months of stratification (cold/damp storage before planting).  The only way we have found to get good germination is with 6 months of stratification before planting (4 or 5 may be enough but we don’t know where the lower edge is)!  With 6 months of cold stratification, followed by planting about 3/8 inch deep at room temperature, we get greater than 50% germination.  We have not yet tried different scarification techniques.  We would love to hear your experiences with starting these seeds if you have found a good method!

Aristolochia macrophylla and Pipevine Swallowtail Butterflies

This vine is native to the Eastern U.S (Apalachians) and Ontario, Canada.  The Pipevine Swallowtail butterflies will lay their eggs on its leaves and the emerging caterpillars will feed on its foliage.  There are many different varieties of Aristolochia and some of them (especially the tropical ones) could be poisonous.  The “mother” butterfly will not know the difference, and she might lay her eggs on the harmful kind.  This is why it is very important to make sure you select the right specie of Aristolochia.