Figure

The Pelican Flower, Aristolochia grandiflora (image from L. van Houtte, Flore des serres et des jardin de l’Europe Vol. 4, 1848; in public domain). This is one of the introduced ornamental species that originates from the Caribbean and Central America. Its stunning large flowers are among those that emit a rotting-meat aroma to attract pollinating flies. The flower essential oil contains the antimicrobial agent geraniol as a major component. This plant has been utilised in the treatment of skin disorders and to induce abortion [3]. Investigations indicate a low level of toxic aristolochic acids (AAs) are present (see supplementary Table 13.0 online).