Aristolochia (Dutchman's Pipe)
| Aristolochia is a tropical vine which has an interesting pollination biology. Insects are attracted to the flowers due to a foul smell produced by Osmophores inside. The markings on the Corolla Tube direct the flies towards the white center. |
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| A side view of the flower shows that the central Perianth tube is reflexed. The Osmophores and the reproductive organs lie close to the receptacle which is seen at the base of the corolla. |
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| The outer neck of the Perianth tube is lined with trichomes which all point in one direction. Remember the Pitcher Plant?? Insects find it relatively easy to get into the enlarged base which holds the reproductive organs. However, it is almost impossible for the guests to get out. |
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| This shows the inside of the enlarged base of the Perianth tube. The reproductive structures are fused into one structure. The yellow structures are the anthers. Ovules are produced inside the central part of the fused organs. When the anthers shed pollen, and the stigma becomes receptive the trapped insects pollinate the flower. After this occurs, the trichomes senesce and the insects fly out and hopefully visit another Aristolochia flower and pollinate it. |
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