Aristolochia molissima -
| Family: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Habit: | Perennial |
| Height: | 0.1 |
| Synonyms: | |
| Range: | E. Asia - China |
The flowers from this plant are hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and they are pollinated by Flies
Soil Information
Aristolochia molissima will grow in medium (loamy), soil. It is / is important for the soil to be well drained.The soil prefers the following PH / acid levels :
- pH of less than 6, Acidic soils
- pH between 6 and 8, Neutral soils
- pH greater than 8, Basic soils
Aristolochia molissima prefers moist soils
Ideal Planting Locations
Aristolochia molissima can grow in semi or areas with no shade.Uplands and bamboo thickets[147].
Planting places suited to this plant described below.
- Grows within a woodland garden
- Works within dappled Shade
Cultivation Details
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it could succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a well-drained loamy soil, rich in organic matter, in sun or semi-shade[1, 134, 200]. Succeeds in ordinary garden soil[134]. Most species in this genus have malodorous flowers that are pollinated by flies[200].Edible Uses*
* See disclaimerEdible Rating: 0/5
None known
Medicinal Uses*
* See disclaimerMedicinal Rating: 2/5
The flowers are diuretic[218]. The whole plant is anodyne, antiphlogistic and carminative[147, 218]. A decoction is used in the treatment of rheumatoid aches and pains[147]. The plant contains aristolochic acid, which is an active antitumour agent but is too toxic for clinical use[218].
- Anodyne - Relieves pain, it is milder than an analgesic.
- Antiphlogistic - Reduces inflammation.
- Carminative - Reduces flatulence and expels gas from the intestines.
- Cytotoxic - Destroys body cells. Used in the treatment of diseases such as cancer, where it is targeted against the cancer cells.
Propagation
Seed - best sown in a greenhouse as soon as it is ripe in the autumn. Pre-soak stored seed for 48 hours in hand-hot water and surface sow in a greenhouse[134]. Germination usually takes place within 1 - 3 months at 20°c[134]. Stored seed germinates better if it is given 3 months cold stratification at 5°c[200]. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer after the last expected frosts. Division in autumn[200]. Root cuttings in winter[200].Known Hazards
We have no specific details for this species but most members of this genus have poisonous roots and stems[179]. The plant contains aristolochic acid, this has received rather mixed reports on its toxicity. According to one report aristolochic acid stimulates white blood cell activity and speeds the healing of wounds, but is also carcinogenic and damaging to the kidneys[254]. Another report says that it is an active antitumour agent but is too toxic for clinical use[218]. Another report says that aristolochic acid has anti-cancer properties and can be used in conjunction with chemotherapy and radiotherapy and that it also increases the cellular immunity and phagocytosis function of the phagocytic cells[176].Other Uses
None knownCultivars
no recorded cultivarsReferences
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