The largest flower on earth, growing to 3 feet and weighing 11 kg (24 lb),Rafflesia arnoldii , is beautiful! But you don't want it in your garden: the flower smells of decaying flesh to attract pollinating flies. It is endemic to the rain forests of Indonesia and is actually quite rare to find.
Curiously, the plant produces no leaves, stems or roots. It can only be seen when it is ready to reproduce. Living as a parasite on the roots of a tropical vine, Rafflesia sends out thread like tissues that penetrate the host.
Photo taken with Mr. Troy Davis, who also captured a stunning collection of Rafflesia pictures that can be seen here
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