While hiking a ravine near the base of White Top Mountain, I came across a twining vine with large, heart-shaped leaves. Only after a close inspection did I notice the remarkable flowers somewhat hidden amongst the leaves. I had seen pictures of the Dutchman's-pipe (Aristolochia durior) in various botany books, but the real thing lifted my spirits; Grayson County, Virginia had again presented me with a new addition to my collection of wildflower photographs.
The date printed on the color slide was May 1970.
(Also see this photograph in larger format.)
Copyright © 2007 William T. Hathaway.