Water
Water consistently, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Also known as Dutchman’s Pipe · Marsh Clubmoss · Pelican Flower
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Aristolochia ringens, the Gaping Dutchman's Pipe, is a vigorous tropical vine with large, intricately shaped flowers resembling pipes, native to South America.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Protect from intense, direct sun which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Ideal temperatures range from 18-24°C. Avoid frost and drastic temperature fluctuations.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
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, which are known to be nephrotoxic and carcinogenic.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. This encourages vigorous flowering and maintains an attractive shape.
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer or by seed sown in spring. Cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and kept in a warm, humid environment to encourage root development.
Repot young plants annually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years, or when rootbound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Gaping Dutchman's Pipe (Aristolochia ringens)
Where Gaping Dutchman's Pipe (Aristolochia ringens) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Piperales |
| Family | Aristolochiaceae |
| Genus | Aristolochia |
| Species | Aristolochia ringens |
Similar in genus Aristolochia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data