Family: Aristolochiaceae

Aristolochia trilobata, commonly known as Dutchman’s pipe, is a tropical vine native to the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America. It is admired for its unique pipe-shaped flowers and fast-growing, climbing habit. While it is not currently considered a major problem in Hawaii, it does have traits that could make it invasive, such as rapid growth and the ability to establish in a variety of conditions. Gardeners should be cautious when planting it near natural areas.

This plant can also pose risks to local wildlife. In other regions, related species of Aristolochia are known to be toxic to certain butterflies that rely on them as host plants, potentially harming native insect populations. Further evaluation is needed to determine if A. trilobata could have similar impacts in Hawaii. Careful management and monitoring are recommended to prevent potential ecological effects.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Other Aristolochia species are invasive weeds
  
• Medicinal, and potentially toxic, properties
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• Climbing and potentially smothering habit
  
• Reproduces by seeds
  
• May be able to spread vegetatively
  
• Seeds dispersed by gravity, possibly wind and intentionally by people
  
• Limited ecological information reduces accuracy of risk prediction

Low Risk Traits:

• No confirmed reports of invasiveness or naturalization
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Ornamental