Friday, February 27, 2009
MISSION COMPLETE.
Still reeling…it seemed unlikely that we would find this ancient flower which only blooms in February and is found only in remote areas of Khao Sok National Park but… WE FOUND IT ALRIGHT!! We left “Our Jungle House” early in the morning and began our trek along the highway towards Phuket. We reached the small foot trail about 3km from our place and started up-up-upwards on the trek of our lives. Steep and winding the track lead us through dry river beds, passed massive trees and tropical life, and along challenging trail high amongst the rainforest canopy. After a grueling uphill battle…there she was-Rafflesia Kerrii Meijer, in all her glory. They don’t lie; this flower is mammoth, pristine, and BEAUTIFUL. We really felt a sense of accomplishment finding this flower. We had trudged through the forest for hours. We were, hot, sweaty, dehydrated, and beat however taking in this once-in-a-lifetime experience was much reward. We found a great little look out spot as we headed back, we took some shots, and recouped before finishing off our 12-15km exploration.
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Hi Guys,
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful flower. I'm sure the picture doesn't do is justice. Well after todays adventure I'm sure you will be relaxing on the beach catching so rays sipping a nice cool drink. Sounds like paradise to me.
Thailand is such a beautiful country.
Well I am looking forward to reading more advenures.
Luv Mom (Miss you)
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ReplyDeleteI bet it was well worth the trek...is this flower fragrant at all? looks very exotic
ReplyDeleteLinda :o)
We had heard the flower released a potent smell of rotting meat! Apparently this attracts bugs for polination...thankfully, no scent to report while we were there.
ReplyDeleteAlso to answer a question my Dad had posed-it is a parasitic species which develops in the roots and trunks of the wild grape family. It takes 9 months for the bud to develop into the incredible 80-100cm flower which you see in the picture and the blooming period is 7 days.