Introduction to Aristolochia baetica
Aristolochia baetica, commonly known as candiles, candilitos, aristoloquia betica or aristoloquia of Andalusia, is a perennial climbing plant that is part of the family aristolochiaceaeThis species is an Ibero-African endemic, being characteristic of the south of the Iberian Peninsula and northwest Africa. Its peculiar flowers and ecological relevance and ethnobotany make it a plant of great interest to both botanists and nature lovers.
Botanical description and morphology
Aristolochia baetica It is a woody and succulent liana that can reach up to 5 meters in lengthIt is characterized by lacking tendrils or adherent roots, unlike other climbers such as ivy, which is why it entangles itself around other plants or structures.
- Rhizome: Globose-fusiform, from which angular and flexible stems emerge.
- Sheets: Simple, alternate, petiolate and heart-shaped (chordate-reniform), generally coriaceous, mucronulate and glaucous on the underside, which gives them a texture and color characteristic.
- Flowers: Solitary and axillary, they display a striking curved tubular shape, 2 to 7 cm long and a candle-like appearance, in purplish-brown to blackish tones. They are hermaphroditic, but their sexual organs mature at different times (protandry/protogyny) to promote cross-pollination.
- Androecium: Composed of 6 fused stamens and the ovary is inferior, with 6 fused carpels.
- Fruit: Capsule-like, 2 to 6 cm, globose-ovoid, umbilicated, with six valves and very fine septa. When ripe, it releases rough, triangular seeds.
Habitat, distribution and ecology
This species is found mainly in scrublands, Mediterranean forests, hedges, thorn forests and undergrowth areas, preferably in calcareous soils. It tolerates dry environments and usually grows in shady places, degraded oak groves or areas of dense scrub. Its altitudinal range is up to 800 meters above sea level.
- Distribution: Exclusive to the south and southwest of the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa.
- Plant associations: It coexists with species such as asparagus, wild olive trees, holm oaks, mastic trees and other typical Mediterranean environments.
- Ecological indicator: It is a bioindicator of the thermo-Mediterranean zone and of certain soil conditions.
In specific locations, such as Benalup and its surroundings, it is frequently seen near the town centre, mountains, hedges and fences. presence It is also documented in farms and scrubland areas, showing great capacity for local colonization.
Phenology: flowering and fruiting
The period of flowering It covers from autumn to late spring (approximately from October to June, although it may vary depending on the annual climate), while the fructification It extends from November to June. The plant produces numerous flowers during these months, which mature into capsules and subsequently disperse seeds through the opening of the fruit.
- Flowering: Abundant and long-lasting, it attracts a wide variety of pollinating insects.
- Dispersion: Mainly local and non-specific, seeds fall close to the parent plant.
Pollination and reproductive peculiarities
One of the most fascinating features of Aristolochia baetica is its system of entomophilous pollination, especially adapted to the visits of flies. The flowers give off aromatic substances that attract these insects, which usually bring pollen from other plants. When they land, the slippery surface guides them to the bottom of the flower, where they fertilize the female organs. A mechanism of stiff hairs Inside, it prevents the insect from immediately exiting, ensuring pollination. When the flower is ready to release pollen, the hairs become less rigid, and the fly can leave carrying the pollen to help fertilize another flower.
Biological type and adaptations
It is classified as phanerophyte, that is, a perennial woody plant with buds located above 25 cm from the ground. It can occur as a vine or a small shrub, depending on environmental conditions. Its drought tolerance and its preference for medium-low fertility and moderately acidic soils (pH 4,5 to 7,5) allows it to adapt well to different Mediterranean environments.
- Usual height: More than 0,3 meters, reaching up to 5 meters if supported by vegetation or obstacles.
- Seed weight: Around 28 mg.
Chemical properties and toxicity
Aristolochia baetica contains aristolochin and trimethylamine, active compounds that have been traditionally used as febrifuges and emmenagogues (they promote menstruation). However, aristoloquine is highly toxic and can cause kidney damage and even abortions, so medicinal use is not recommended and should only be done under strict medical supervision. It should never be used at home. due to serious health risks.
Ecological interaction and associated fauna
The plant is not only important for pollinating insects, but also for certain lepidoptera. Is food plant of the Zerynthia rumina caterpillar, a butterfly that depends on this genus to complete its life cycle. Furthermore, its presence in the ecosystem contributes to biodiversity and the structuring of the Mediterranean undergrowth.
Ecological indicators and sensitivity to disturbances
According to Ellenberg-type ecological indicators, Aristolochia baetica is a species that tolerates both full light and partial shade, coping well with hot summers and dry soils. It does not tolerate very saline or highly fertilized soils, which makes it sensitive to intensive human disturbance, such as plowing or overfertilization. It is resistant to moderate mowing frequency, as well as to certain herbivorous pressures (grazing by large herbivores).
- Light: It prefers sunny exposure but survives in light shade.
- Temperature: Adapted to extreme hot climates.
- Humidity: Indicator of dry or moderately dry soils.
- Acidity: Tolerance to weakly acidic to neutral soils.
- Nitrogen: It grows in moderately poor or slightly rich soils.
