Native to South America, Calico flower is a tender evergreen vine with very unusual flowers. Leaves are beautiful, bright green heart shaped.

Aristolochia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Aristolochiaceae. It consists of around 400 species of herbaceous vines and shrubs that are commonly known as pipevines or Dutchman's pipes. Aristolochia species are distributed worldwide, with a particular abundance in tropical and subtropical regions.

These plants are known for their distinctive, pipe-shaped flowers that are often intricately patterned and have a unique appearance. The flowers are usually maroon or brown in color and have a tube-like structure that resembles a pipe or a curved trumpet. The flowers are designed to attract specific pollinators, often flies, which are lured into the flower's tube and covered in pollen before they can escape.

One well-known species of Aristolochia is Aristolochia clematitis, commonly called birthwort. Historically, birthwort has been used for medicinal purposes, although it is now recognized to contain toxic compounds and is not recommended for internal use.

In addition to their interesting flowers, some Aristolochia species have attractive foliage and can be cultivated as ornamental plants. One popular cultivar is Aristolochia durior, commonly known as the Dutchman's pipevine. This species features large, heart-shaped leaves and produces clusters of pipe-shaped flowers that can be maroon or greenish-yellow in color. Dutchman's pipevines are often grown as climbing vines on trellises or fences.

It's important to note that while Aristolochia plants can be visually intriguing, they may also be toxic to humans and animals if ingested. The plant contains toxic compounds known as aristolochic acids, which can cause severe health issues. Therefore, caution should be exercised when growing Aristolochia, and it is advised to research specific species and their toxicity levels before cultivating them.

In recent years, there has been increased concern about the conservation status of some Aristolochia species due to habitat loss and overcollection. Some species are now protected, and it is important to respect regulations and guidelines regarding their cultivation and trade.

Overall, Aristolochia plants are known for their unique, pipe-shaped flowers and attractive foliage. While some species have historical medicinal uses, they are now primarily cultivated as ornamental plants. However, due to their toxicity and potential invasiveness in some regions, it is essential to exercise caution and research specific species before growing them.