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So a bit of an explanation:
Some time ago, when I was still writing for Gadling, I featured a photograph taken by a reader of a "corpse flower" -- so named because its fragrance is reminiscent of the odor of a decomposing body. The photographer had taken a photo of this, one of the largest flowers in the world, while trekking through the rainforests of Indonesia, and I remember reading something about the fact that in the wild, this endangered flower's foul stench is so strong, it can travel for over 2 miles.
Wrap your mind around that, for a second: the smell of death traveling for over 2 miles.
As you might imagine, my immediate reaction on reading these words was likely similar to your reaction right now: to recoil in complete horror. I couldn't imagine just coming across one of these flowers in the wild, much less actually seeking one out to investigate. They sounded nauseating.
But then...
But then, I learned that the Houston Museum of Natural Science was in possession of one of these flowers, and that it was on the verge of blooming. I learned that fewer than 100 of these flowers have bloomed in cultivation (since they only bloom about once every 6 years or so), and that fewer then 30 have bloomed in the United States. And given that I've sort of been known to take a photograph of a flower or two, I became single-minded: I had to take a photograph of this stinky blossom.
Unfortunately, as of the typing of this post, "Lois" (as this flower has been affectionately nicknamed) hasn't bloomed yet. And let me tell you, Houston is ABLAZE in anticipation. Twitter is on fire. We're keeping up with the museum's blog posts (including video updates by the museum's chief horticulturalist, Zac). We're watching the live camera feed. We're even following Twitter updates from Lois herself.
And so, I'm on point to leap into action to photograph Lois at a moment's notice: my camera is at the ready, and I even have a fresh pot of Vicks Vaporub in my handbag to dab under my nose to handle the smell, if necessary (although, honestly, if the smell really does travel for miles, I'm thinking my little pot o'Vicks isn't going to do a heck of a lot).
So basically, this post is a long-winded way of saying that I'm sharing yet another butterfly photo with you today because my obsession with a weird-looking, stinky flower has taken over all aspects of my consciousness. Apologies, and with a little luck, this puppy will bloom tomorrow, so I can snap some shots and get over it.
Image: Butterfly from the Cockrell Butterfy Center photographed with my Nikon D300 and 60mm micro lens.
Song: Smells like teen spirit by Nirvana. Because, come on: you had to know this was coming.
Mon, July 12, 2010
Reader Comments (14)
I too have become obsessed with Lois. Being the news junkie that I am, it is nice to have something positive and beautiful to focus my mind on. It is the first thing I checked in the morning, did she bloom overnight? As much as I look forward to seeing her in full bloom, I can't wait to see how you capture her unique beauty. Ok, time to check the webcam again.
I think this is one of the coolest life list entries, ever. And the butterfly makes a perfectly lovely stand-in for now. :)
Because of your obsession, I am now obsessed. I hope it blooms later this week so I can take the girls on Saturday. I think it would be amazing to actually see it. Smell-notsomuch.
Equally obsessed! Visiting the museum this afternoon! Fingers crossed, she blooms at 3:00 as they're predicting.
Your song choice is perfect. I'm still laughing even though, yes - I did see it coming.
My very favourite part of this whole obsession is that you are now the second and third result on google when searching for "giant misshapen penis". Bwahahahahaha...
How long will it stay a bloom?
Dana --
Apparently it takes about a month to blossom, but then it only remains a blossom for about a day or two. That's why everyone's on pins and needles -- you blink, you might miss it!
K.
I am a silent reader of yours. I don't know if you're interested but I'm giving you a blogger award. Please feel free to follow the link for the details and the award itself. Luv you!
http://www.walkingtheborderline.com/2010/07/yay-me.html
I saw a bit about on the local news last night and thought about you! I can't wait to see your picture!