SafePlants

Texas Dutchman's-pipe (Aristolochia reticulata)

Texas Dutchman's-pipe, scientifically known as Aristolochia reticulata, is a perennial non-woody vine belonging to the Aristolochiaceae (Birthwort) Family.

Common Names

• Texas Dutchman's-pipe
• Red River Snakeroot

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Aristolochia reticulata Jacq.
• Family: Aristolochiaceae (Birthwort Family)
• Order: Aristolochiales

Distribution and Habitat

This plant is native to Texas and also found in other areas such as from Florida to East Texas, north to Kansas.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Aristolochia reticulata is a perennial growing to approximately 0.4 meters (1ft 4in).
• Other members of the Aristolochia genus, like Aristolochia macrophylla, are climbers, growing up to 7 meters (23ft) at a fast rate.
• Dutchman's pipe prefers to climb and has heart-shaped foliage and blooms from spring to fall.
• Other Aristolochia varieties like Aristolochia gigantea are fast-growing semi-deciduous vines.

Ecological Role

• Texas Dutchman's-pipe is a crucial host plant for the Pipevine Swallowtail butterfly (Battus philenor). The Pipevine Swallowtail lays its eggs on this plant, and the larvae feed on it.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• It serves as a food source for the Pipevine Swallowtail butterfly caterpillars.
• It attracts butterflies to gardens, especially the Pipevine Swallowtail.

Quirky Facts

• The common name "Dutchman's pipe" comes from the unusual shape of its flowers, which resemble a pipe.

Further Information

• TAMU Herbarium - Department of Biology, Texas A&M University