Desert Dutchman's Pipevine (Aristolochia watsonii)

Very hard to find seeds! Aristolochia watsonii, or Watson's Dutchman's Pipe, is as tough as it is beautifully unique and unusual. When grown in sun, the foliage is a lovely bronze-purple, turning green in shade. The flowers are incredibly unique and fascinating; shaped like a mouse ear or pipe. They are pollinated by small flies that are trapped in the flower overnight, causing pollination. It is a perennial native to the rocky desert Southwest of the US and Mexico, enabling to it grow in harsh, dry gardens or habitats. Aristolochia species are choice host plants for the amazing Pipevine Swallowtail butterfly. This is a fantastic and rare addition to your garden/ habitat restoration to add interest and native biodiversity while preserving this species ex situ. Water Use: Low Light Requirement: Sun , Part Shade Soil Moisture: Dry Drought Tolerance: High Heat Tolerant: yes Conditions Comments: Grows on rocky slopes in desert Southwest and in Mexico. GERMINATION: Soaking desert snakeroot seeds is a very important process. The seeds have a hard outer shell which can be tough for them to germinate. a. Soak in water for 24-48 hours b. If longer time soaking, change water every 24 hours Germination: Heat is extremely important in germinating desert snake root. a. A Heat mat or a heat lamp can be used to warm them b. 85°-90° is an excellent temperature for germination c. You can use a small container and fill it with a thin layer of sand for sprouting d. Germination can take anywhere from 10-50 days or even more. Emerging b. Watering from the base is important to reduce exposure to damping off c. Planting in a starter pot first can be ideal for it d. While the plant is establishing to its new environment, water every time the soil gets a little dry e. Once fully established, plant in a shady or sunny, dry location f. It is extremely important to include a drainage substance including sand or perlite into the potting mix. No extra nutrients is required g. Most pipevine including desert snakeroot will flower and fruit within the first year of planting