Aristolochia is a large genus in the Aristolochiaceae family. Many members contain aristolochic acid which was once thought to be therapeutic and is now recognised as highly toxic. Some species from dry climates, such as A. chilensis and A. cretica, are geophytes with tubers and an annual dormant period.
Aristolochia chilensis is from Atacama desert south to the central region of Chile. Photograph by Eugene Zielinski taken in Spring 2011 between Huasco and Carrizalillo. This species trails along the ground, producing nicely marked leaves and interesting flowers, reflecting the common names of the genus, "Dutchman's pipe" and "pipe vine". It would be an appropriate garden plant in mild Mediterranean climates because it doesn't get very big or run underground. It is interesting because it comes in two flower color forms, one coastal and one inland.
