Illustrated Investigation of Plant Names and Realities

Local Green Wood Fragrance

original: Tǔ Qīngmùxiāng. This plant is identified as Aristolochia debilis, a species of birthwort. In traditional medicine, it is often called "Horse Bell" (Mǎdòulíng) because its hanging seed pods resemble the decorative bells once worn by horses.

Translator's note: The accompanying illustration shows a slender climbing vine with distinctive heart-shaped (cordate) leaves. Several bulbous, pendant fruit capsules are visible, hanging from delicate stems. This woodcut style is characteristic of the mid-19th century Qing dynasty, focusing on the diagnostic features of the plant—specifically the venation of the leaves and the unique structure of the "Horse Bell" seed pods.