Aristolochia
Quick Summary
Aristolochia is a genus of plants belonging to the birthwort family, Aristolochiaceae. This family, which includes about 590 species, is primarily found in tropical regions and consists mostly of woody vines, with some temperate species. The genus Aristolochia itself contains over 400 species of vines and herbs.1
Key characteristics of Aristolochia plants include a three-lobed calyx, and some species lack petals while others have large, foul-smelling flowers. Examples of species include Virginia snakeroot, pelican flower, and Dutchman's-pipe. Some Aristolochia species have been used in herbal medicine, though the plant is poisonous. The genus is also known as pipe vine.12
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