Family: Aristolochiaceae
Scientific name: Aristolochia gigantea
Common name: Brazilian Dutchman's Pipe
Origin: Brazil

This giant pipe flower resembles to the calico flower (Aristolochia elegans), but is a lot bigger. The climber can reach a height of 10 meters and produces lovely brown-purple spotted flowers which can grow up to 30 cm wide. These flowers spread a less pleasant scent, because they have to be pollinated by flies. The designation pipe flower refers to the 19th century Dutch pipes, which is why the plant is also often called the ‘Dutchman’s pipe’. The plant can be kept as a container plant at a minimum temperature of 5 to 10 degrees Celsius.
 
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

Photo 1: Leo Michels
Photo 2: Rancho Reubidoux