Dutchman's-pipe, Isotrema macrophylla

Dutchman's-pipe is one of the strangest flowers we've got. These long, partly inflated tubes seem to be all about slow pollination. Make it last! Whatever flies are attracted can spend an hour or more in there, wandering around to make sure the job is well done. This plant has been used as medicine, and is effective in treating swelling of the extremities. But it is also very effective at producing kidney failure, mutations, and cancer. Formerly sold as aristolochic acid, but hopefully never available now. Dutchman's-pipe vine grows in AL, CT, GA, KY, MA, MD(T), ME, MI, NC, NJ, NY, PA, SC, TN, VA, VT, WA, and ON. Beal Gardens, MSU, 5/24/12.