California Dutchman's Pipe

The larva of the Pipevine swallowtail butterfly (Battus philenor hirsuta) relies on California pipevine as its only food source. The red-spotted black caterpillars consume the leaves of the plants and then use the flowers as a secure, enclosed place to undergo metamorphosis. The plant contains a toxin which when ingested by the caterpillars makes them unpalatable to predators.

Antonio. I do think that this plant has an amazing pollination technique. My first reaction was that it was insectivorous. Was very fascinated to learn how it release the insect alive after trapping it for 2 hrs!!

this spotting is very dear to me since it is a native of California. Endangered and a very unusual plant. It is the sole food source for the pipevine butterfly. Very interesting method of pollination. Not an insectivorous plant.If I were a insect , I would like to be trapped in it it for couple of hours. It provides food nectar and a good shelter.

Dutchman’s Pipe has an interesting pollination technique. The nectar inside the flower has a foul smell that attracts flies and once inside the curled flower the flies can’t escape. Because this is trick is reminiscent of many plants’ lure in order to feed off of insects, it may seem like this is the end of the fly. Not exactly. The fly hangs around inside the Dutchman’s pipe and dines on some nectar. At the same time, pollen from a previously visited blossom is transferred and pollination begins. Once the flower’s stamen has fully matured, the flower opens up and the fly is set free. Of course, he now carries the pollen from the mature stamen with him.