Dutchman's Pipe

Aristolochia macrophylla   (old A. durior)
Birthwort Family

A strange flower, the tubular calyx is J-shaped with three lobes (that may appear to be joined) around a dark opening that gives access to insects, by which the flower is pollinated. Dutchman's Pipe is a native vine. The best way to find them is by searching for the large heart-shaped leaves that twine up tree trunks, then look under the leaves for the inconspicuous flowers, which vary in color from yellow to reddish-brown. This one is on Hwy 276 in Pisgah Forest, NC but are widespread throughout the area... photo 17 May, 2004.

Wildflowers of the Southern Appalachian Mountains -- Home Page