Aristolochia gigantea, commonly called Brazilian Dutchmanâs pipe or giant pelican flower, is a fast growing woody evergreen twining climber of the birthwort family that produces in early summer unusually large apetalous flowers each having a pouch to 2â long and 1â across. Flowers are burgundy velvet netted with distinctive ivory white veins. Flowers purportedly resemble a Dutchmanâs pipe, albeit a very large one. Flowers bloom summer to winter in their native territory. This vine will typically grow to 15-20â long. Vines are clad with light green leaves to 6â long. Flowers are followed by papery capsules containing many seeds. This species is native to humid forested areas from Costa Rica and Panama to Brazil.
Do not allow the soil to dry out completely when caring for pipe vines in containers. Plants in the ground will also need supplemental watering.
Plant it in full sun to partial shade (but flowering may be better in full sun) and in soil with good drainage.
During the growing season water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; water more sparingly in winter
Moreover, if you wish to maintain a tidy display, you may have to prune a mature Dutchman's pipe with some regularity. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring. Being vigorous (once established), it responds well to pruning, so don't be afraid to trim it.
