I was in the Philippines, got the call it was blooming, so went for it! It only blooms for 5 days once a year, so you take it when it happens! Someone important? Sure, but then we all are Asking for a press pass is actually quite easy if you can back it up. And yep, it’s quite impressive in person, the smell too!

-JoAnna- Yep it’s really big. It only blooms once a year, and for only 5 days. So to get to see one takes a little planning. I think the one’s in Malaysian Borneo are easier to see.

-keira- It’s weird looking alright. The great thing about a place like Mindanao, is that the tourist infrastructure is not to the level of other countries whereby you have to stand 30 feet back, unless you are a botanist with permits. So yes, I did get to touch. And, yes, it is quite rubbery. That said, the locals are very protective of the flower, and do watch over it like hawks. Which is a good thing.

-Nomadic Chick- That’s the look of it alright. I think some sci-fi movies might have based a few things on it alright. Most great inspirational ideas seem to come from nature, for good reason!