Description
A smothering climber with heart-shaped leaves and pipe-shaped flowers native to Brazil and Argentina. Crushed leaves and cut stems give off an offensive “nail polish” smell.
Why it’s bad
It attracts the Richmond Birdwing butterfly, but kills the butterfly’s caterpillars with toxins in the leaves. All the parts of the plant are poisonous and should not be handled without gloves.
Control
Cut near the base and paint with neat herbicide. Carefully collect any fruit or seed and take off site for disposal.
Alternatives
Replace with Richmond Birdwing Vine Pararistolochia praevenosa. The plants need to be at least three years old, healthy and vigorous. Feed and water well.
Dutchman’s Pipe Aristolochia elegans Photo: Mark Crocker
Richmond Birdwing Vine Pararistolochia praevenosa Photo: Don Sands
