Egídio invites us to show our interpretation of Over the Top – images of things that are beyond the bound of what is expected, usual, normal or appropriate. My photo collection is crammed full of normal, usual, and expected images, however, there is one photo-shoot I did in 2019 on the campus of Washington State University, Vancouver that qualifies! Professor Emeritus Steve Sylvester planted a titan arum seed in 2002, cultivated it on his desk and then moved it to a stairwell planter in the Science and Engineering Building. After 17 years, Big Bucky finally bloomed.
What you may ask is “over the top” about this blossom? To start with, it is over 4 ft (1.22 m) in height.
In addition, the blooms of Amorphophallus titanum give off a powerful scent of rotting flesh which attracts pollinators. As a consequence, it is characterized as a carrion flower, earning it the names corpse flower or corpse plant.
Lindy Low LeCoq 
Very cool! I can’t believe he grew this on his desk and in a stairwell for over 20 years. Wow! Definitely over the top.
That’s the story from the local newspaper! He started with seeds and kept it on his desk until he had to make room!
These flowers are almost impossible to believe. How and why did such a massive structure evolve. In some ways you’d think the size of it makes it vulnerable.
Here’s what I learned.
A. Titanium is native to rainforests on the Indonesian island of Sumatra. It was first brought to flower in cultivation at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in 1889. Since then it has flowered at many botanic gardens but remains difficult for amateurs to cultivate. Wikipedia
I’ve seen one many years ago at the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens, it was blooming and I can’t remember any smell either. Fantastic choice for the challenge, Lindy!
Thank you, Sofia!
Oh my goodness Lindy, now that is REALLY over the top! Here’s hoping it never gives off the well-know offensive odor!
Thanks, Tina! It is now dormant and may bloom again in the next few years❣️
I’ve heard of these, but your post marks the first time I’ve seen a photo of one. Thanks! A great OTT share, Lindy!
Thanks John!