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Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours

Stratification: cold stratify for 90 days

Germination: sow seed 1/4" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed

Native to: Albania, Austria, Baleares, Baltic States, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Central European Rus, Corse, Czechoslovakia, East European Russia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Kazakhstan, Krym, Netherlands, North Caucasus, Northwest European R, Poland, Romania, Sicilia, South European Russi, Spain, Switzerland, Transcaucasus, Turkey, Turkey-in-Europe, Ukraine, Yugoslavia

Introduced to: Denmark, Great Britain, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, Norway, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Québec, Sweden

Native

Introduced

Aristolochia clematitisAristolochia clematitis

Birthwort

In Stock: 0.514 lb (Total:0.514lb)

Aristolochia clematitis

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0.51 lb

Details

Germination:

99%

Germination test:

Cut (Full Seed)

Purity:

99%

Seeds per lb:

8,719

Quantity:

0.51 lb

Collected in:

Hungary

Crop year:

1999

Min. hardiness zone:

Item ID:

7839

Characteristics

Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours

Stratification: cold stratify for 90 days

Germination: sow seed 1/4" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed

Aristolochia clematitis, commonly known as Birthwort, is a captivating addition to gardens seeking a touch of European mystique. This rhizomatous, deciduous perennial, native to Europe and naturalized in select regions of North America, thrives in USDA Zones 6-9. Reaching heights of 2-3 feet, it is adorned with heart-shaped leaves and distinctive greenish-yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. Unlike its relatives, Birthwort's flowers are apetalous, featuring a straight funnel-shaped tube that attracts specific tiny insects for pollination.

Historically used under the medieval Doctrine of Signatures, Birthwort was believed to aid childbirth due to its womb-like flower structure. However, its aristolochic acid content is now known to be toxic. Despite this, it plays a crucial ecological role as a host plant for the pipevine swallowtail butterfly, whose larvae feed on its leaves. While it lacks showy flowers, its foliage stands out, making it a perfect fit for borders and naturalized areas. Birthwort appreciates well-drained, moderately fertile soils in full sun to part shade, offering garden enthusiasts a unique historical plant with a story to tell.