Mediterranean Succulents

This stunning ground cover will grace my succulent patch in the spring. I am starting them from seed, so they will be ready for planting after the last frost (that is, if we get any)

Carpobrotus edulis is a perennial growing to 5 inches by 3 ft It is hardy to zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from Aug to September. The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by Bees.
 

The plant prefers light (sandy) soils, requires well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil.The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. and can grow in saline soils.
 

It cannot grow in the shade.It requires dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Brazilian Dutchman's Pipe Aristolochia gigantea

Oh wow! Is this one is Bizarre!

 

Also known as Giant Pelican Flower, Aristolochia gigantea is a robust, twisting climber that can grow around a sturdy arbor or a tree up to 30 feet tall or higher.

This vine has fleshy heart-shaped leaves and large flowers exceeding a foot long and at least 6 inches wide. The flower is astounding, impressive, strange and sinister at the same time. The mouth of the pipe-shaped flower expands to a huge size and is colored with a maroon and white netting effect. In the “mouth” there is a central yellow spot where an opening leads into a closed pouch. The back view of the flower superficially resembles a pair of lungs with a canal leading into a stomach-like pouch. The blossom is over 14 inches (36 cm) long.
These huge, lemony scented flowers bloom from summer until late winter and are a sight to behold

Aristolochia gigantea usually grows in tropical regions from Panama to Brazil but it is incredibly hardy, and is an evergreen that will not die off at the first sign of a frost.

Seeds found here: Aristolochia gigantea