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Woolly Dutchman's-pipe

Aristolochia tomentosa

Last reviewed: June 2026

Woolly Dutchman's-pipe (Aristolochia tomentosa)
Photo: Chhe (talk) / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

240"–600" H × 120"–360" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native to

AL, AR, FL, GA and 13 more states

Pollinators

flies

Woolly dutchman's-pipe is a vigorous native climbing vine that can reach 20-50 feet in height with heart-shaped leaves and unusual curved, pipe-shaped flowers in late spring. This deciduous vine provides excellent coverage for fences, arbors, or trellises in partially shaded areas. It requires sturdy support structures due to its substantial size and weight.

In an HOA neighborhood

Woolly Dutchman's-pipe takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Extremely large size can appear overgrown
  • May look bare and untidy in winter
  • Requires constant management to prevent overwhelming structures

Wildlife value

Host plant for pipevine swallowtail butterfly.

This vine attracts flies for pollination with its unique tubular flowers. It serves as the primary host plant for pipevine swallowtail butterfly caterpillars, making it valuable for supporting this native butterfly species.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Woolly Dutchman's-pipe fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.