Common Name:

General Information

Aristolochia cymbifera is an evergreen climbing shrub, growing up to 7 metres tall[]. Few plants produce flowers so showy yet so sinister as this species, hanging as they do like tattered and stained rags[].
The plant is gathered from the wild for its use locally in traditional medicine[], it is also cultivated as an ornamental in gardens, particularly for its flowers[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

S. America - Brazil.

Habitat

Not known

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Habit	Evergreen Climber
Height	7.00 m
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Prefers a well-drained, humus-rich, loamy soil and a position in full sun or partial shade[].
The flowers of many species in this genus form an intricate trap for pollinating insects. The insects are tempted to an area of the flower where they are unable to grip and they slide down into the utricle - downward pointing hairs prevent them climbing out[]. The trap helps to ensure the fertilization of the flowers and the insects are eventually released[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The roots are diaphoretic, diuretic and emmenagogue[]. They are used in the treatment of diarrhoea and asthma[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - pre-soak for 48 hours in warm water and surface sow. Germinates best at a temperature of 25 - 30c[].
Softwood cuttings[].

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