Pararistolochia praevenosa
Plant Number: 20
Common Name: Richmond Birdwing Vine, Birdwing Butterfly Vine
Scientific Name: Pararistolochia praevenosa
Derivation of name
Pararistolochia – From the Greek 'aristos' meaning 'best' and locheia meaning 'childbirth' in reference to the belief that the plant was effective against infections caused by childbirth
Description
- A woody, climbing vine to 20 metres
- Firm leaves to 25 cm glossy above, paler below
- Young shoots densely hairy; older stems corky
- Tubular creamy or pink hairy flowers to 20 mm
- Yellow ribbed oblong fruit to 4 cm
Fauna Usage
The leaves of this vine are the only food source for the caterpillar of the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly (Ornithoptera richmondia). This is one of Australia's largest butterflies and has been listed as vulnerable in Queensland (Qld Nature Conservation Act 1992).
Acknowledgment: Mangroves to Mountains, South Seedbank