Woolly Dutchman's Pipevine

Woolly Dutchman’s Pipevine (Isotrema tomentosum-- previously Aristolochia tomentosa) is a woody, deciduous, twining vine native to predominantly the southeastern and the South Central United States. Commonly called Dutchman's pipe because the unusual, 2" long, yellowish-green, flowers resemble Dutch smoking pipes.

This lush plant can provide dense shade for covered porches/verandas, and can quickly cover pillars, posts, fences, and walls (with provided support). When not planted in a garden setting, it can be found along streams and moist wooded areas climbing trees and shrubs.

Woolly Dutchman’s Pipevine (A. tomentosa) has fuzzy hairs covering both leaves and young stems. It is often confused with its smooth-leaved cousin, the Dutchman’s Pipevine (A. macrophylla), native to eastern North America.

This plant functions as a host plant for Pipevine Swallowtail and Polydamas Swallowtail larvae. Plant it, and they will come!

Native to AL, AR, CT, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MO, MS, NC, NY, OH, OK, RI, SC, TN, TX, VT, WI.

HARDINESS ZONES | 5 - 8

MATURE HEIGHT | 20-30ft

SPREAD | 5-10ft, suckers

SUN | Full sun to part shade

WATER | Medium, does not tolerate dry soil

LARVAL HOST | Pipevine Swallowtails (Battus philenor); Polydamas Swallowtails (Battus polydamas)

PLANT SIZE: FIRST YEAR PLANTS IN 4” POT

NOTE: Once mature, Isotrema tomentosum has the potential to be an aggressively spreading native. It sends out new shoots nearby from growth under the soil. For this reason, it is not recommended for planting in small garden settings. That is, unless you are prepared to keep its spreading habit in check. Regular maintenance recommended.

CREDITS: Image 5: Woolly Dutchman's Pipevine Native Range Map from USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service