We thought the giant Philodendron pinnatifidum was getting ready to open another huge leaf, but one day this week as I paused on my way out the back door I glanced down and this is what I saw. It gave me a start. The flower is longer that my hand and looks ready to swallow the unwary.

I had never seen one of this species until it showed up on the bargain table a couple years ago at Belgian Nursery. I thought it would add an accent to our sunny breakfast nook, but it proceeded to fill the space. I hardly know where to put it now. It needs a corner of a solarium all to itself. I have been contemplating looking for someone who wants to adopt a green monster, so perhaps this flower represents a bid to stay.

One of the amusing things about houseplants is they can carry on just being green for a long time. Then suddenly they surprise you.