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Aristolochia littoralis
| Family Name: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Synonyms: | Aristolochia elegans |
| Common Name: | Calico Flower, Elegant Dutchman's Pipe |
Name
Classifications and Characteristics
| Plant Growth Form | Climber |
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Biogeography
| Native Distribution | Brazil |
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Description and Ethnobotany
| Growth Form | Herbaceous vine that produces dense foliage. |
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| Foliage | Smooth, hairless leaves are heart-shaped, bean-shaped or ovate with entire leaf margin (10 cm long, 12 cm wide). They occur in alternate leaf arrangement (singly on alternating sides of the stem). Crushed leaves produce an unpleasant odour. |
| Flowers | Pipe-shaped flowers are dark red with white zigzag streaks and occur singly in the leaf axils. Flowers produce an odour like rotting meat to attract pollinating flies. |
| Fruit | Dry, dehiscent fruits are known as capsules. Dark brown fruits are cylindrical (6 cm long, 3 cm wide). |
| Habitat | Occurs in disturbed sites. In Australia and South Africa, this species is considered an invasive species. |
| Cultivation | Propagate by stem cuttings and seed. |
| Ethnobotanical Uses | Medicinal: Although extracts are sometimes added to herbal supplements, this species is toxic and should not be consumed. |
Landscaping Features
| Desirable Plant Features | Ornamental Flowers, Ornamental Foliage |
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Plant Care and Propagation
| Light Preference | Full Sun |
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| Water Preference | Moderate Water |
| Plant Growth Rate | Fast |
Foliar
| Mature Foliage Colour(s) | Green |
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Floral (Angiosperm)
| Flower Colour(s) | White, Brown |
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Image Repository
Others
| Master ID | 21 |
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| Species ID | 1317 |
| Flora Disclaimer | The information in this website has been compiled from reliable sources, such as reference works on medicinal plants. It is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment and NParks does not purport to provide any medical advice. Readers should always consult his/her physician before using or consuming a plant for medicinal purposes. |
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