Family: Aristolochiaceae
Scientific name: Aristolochia elegans
Common name: Calico flower
Origin: Brazil

The calico flower (calico is a soft, brownish colour) is in fact a kind of pipe flower with large, brown-purple spotted flowers which are about 10 cm wide. The designation pipe flower refers to the 19th century Dutch pipes, which is why the plant is also often called the ‘Dutchman’s pipe’. It’s a climber that can grow up to 3 meters high, with beautiful heart-shaped leaves, and can be kept as a container plant. The minimum temperature is around -5 degrees Celsius. Please be aware that all parts of the plant are poisonous.

Sowing description: First soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 48 hours. The seeds can be sown in sowing mix, and should be covered with a very thin layer of soil. Move it to a bright spot at a temperature of 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. Constantly keep the soil moist (cover with plastic foil or glass).

Sowing time: Whole year
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: -5 degrees Celcius