Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during the cooler, dormant months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid fungal issues.
Also known as Pipevine
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Aristolochia leuconeura, the Costa Rica pipevine, is a striking tropical vine with large, leathery leaves and unique, intricate flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered light. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves. Can tolerate some shade.
Regular watering
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allow top inch to dry out before watering again. Reduce in winter.
Well-draining, fertile soil
50% intensity
Average to warm temperatures
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-25°C. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C.
Moderate feeding
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Toxic if ingested. Contains aristolochic acids.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during the cooler, dormant months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid fungal issues.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. This can be done anytime, but major pruning is best performed in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Pinch back tips to encourage bushier growth.
Propagate from stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Use a rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep the cuttings consistently moist and in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light to encourage root development.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot one size larger with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Repotting is best done in spring, just as new growth begins.
Handle the roots gently to minimize transplant shock.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Costa Rica Pipevine (Aristolochia leuconeura)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Piperales |
| Family | Aristolochiaceae |
| Genus | Aristolochia |
| Species | Aristolochia leuconeura |
Similar in genus Aristolochia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data