Calico Flower (Aristolochia elegans): Curious Pipe-Shaped Blooms

Calico flower (Aristolochia elegans), also called elegant Dutchman's pipe or pelican flower, is a vigorous, twining vine with heart-shaped leaves and bizarre, pipe-shaped flowers—cream with a purple-brown, inflated pouch and a flared, fringed "mouth." The flowers trap pollinators temporarily.

Habit

Climbs 10–15 feet. Blooms in summer. The flowers are malodorous (attracting flies). The vine is a host plant for pipevine swallowtail butterfly caterpillars. Note: Aristolochia species contain aristolochic acid, a potent toxin and carcinogen.

Culture

Full sun to part shade; moist, well-drained soil. Provide strong support. Hardy in zones 8–10. Handle with gloves; avoid ingestion.

Taxonomy

• Family: Aristolochiaceae
• Genus: Aristolochia
• Species: elegans
• Synonym: Aristolochia littoralis