About

Aristolochia sempervirens is a perennial climbing plant characterized by its lustrous, elongated, heart-shaped foliage. The flowers, which can grow to 4 cm in length, feature a tubular, curved shape. Inside, they are golden and hairy, complemented by a dark red lip and a lighter, red-veined outer surface. This species blooms continuously from early spring until summer. It has a unique pollination mechanism that involves briefly trapping small insects. It can attain heights of up to 5 meters.

About the genus

Aristolochia includes both shrubs and herbaceous perennials, with many species exhibiting climbing habits. The leaves are typically heart-shaped or ovate. The flowers are characterized by an S-shaped calyx tube and lack petals, presenting in colors such as white, yellow, brown, or maroon, often featuring mottled patterns.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing, West-facing, East-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Plant type

Climber Wall Shrub

Habit

Climbing

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

4-8 metres

Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Time to full height

5-10 years

Suggested uses

City and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants

Native to

S Europe

Toxicity

TOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): TOXIC if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

Cultivation

Will grow in thin chalky conditions and is drought tolerant. Requires sun or semi-shade

Pruning

May be cut back to 2 or 3 nodes in spring if necessary

Propagation

Propagate by seed in spring or propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility