Definition

Noun 1. A species of woody vine: Aristolochia macrophylla is the scientific (Latin) name for a specific, hardy, deciduous climbing plant. It is characterized by its very large, heart-shaped leaves and unique flowers where the calyx (the outer part of the flower) forms a curved tube resembling the bowl of a tobacco pipe.

Usage Notes

• This term is a proper noun referring to a single, specific biological species. It is always written in italics in scientific contexts.
• The first part () is the genus name (capitalized). The second part () is the specific epithet (not capitalized).
• This is the primary scientific name. Common names like "Dutchman's pipe" or "pipevine" are often used in gardening and general conversation.

Examples

• Scientific Context:
  • The garden's trellis is covered in Aristolochia macrophylla.
  • Aristolochia macrophylla* is the host plant for the Pipevine Swallowtail butterfly caterpillar.*
• Horticultural Context:
  • For a fast-growing screen, consider planting Aristolochia macrophylla.

Advanced Usage

• Taxonomic Classification: The name places the plant within the genus , which is part of the family Aristolochiaceae.
• Binomial Nomenclature: This term is an example of a binomial (two-part) scientific name, following the system established by Carl Linnaeus.

Variants and Related Words

• Common Names:
  • Dutchman's pipe: The most widely used common name, derived from the shape of its flower.
  • Pipevine: A general name for vines in this genus.
• Related Scientific Term:
  • Aristolochia (n.): The genus name for a group of vines and herbaceous plants known for their unusual, often foul-smelling flowers that attract pollinating insects.

Synonyms

• Dutchman's pipe
• Pipevine (though this can refer to other species within the genus)

Notes on Meaning

• The specific epithet "" comes from Greek, meaning "large-leaved" ( = large, = leaf), which is a key identifying feature of this species.
• The defining characteristic mentioned in the reference—"the calyx tube curved like the bowl of a pipe"—is the reason for its common name, "Dutchman's pipe." The flower's structure is specialized for trapping pollinators temporarily to ensure fertilization.

Noun

1. hardy deciduous vine having large leaves and flowers with the calyx tube curved like the bowl of a pipe