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The Aristolochia elegans belongs to Aristolochiaceae (the Birthwort family). It is a perennial herb that is native to Brazil, it is also known as "pipe kazura" in Japan. The brown petal-like flowers are sepals, which look like pipes when viewed from the side. The flowers can be seen all year round, but usually from spring to summer. It is surprisingly resistant to cold and will overwinter at temperatures as low as 5 degree Celsius. In Brazil, the roots and stems are used as a stomachic tonic and snake poison remover.
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