A team of botanists on an expedition in the Philippines has discovered a carnivorous plant that is so large, it can devour large insects and rats whole.

The pitcher plant, believed to be the biggest meat-eating shrub in existence, was found high atop Mount Victoria by two experts, Alastair Robinson and Stewart McPherson. They were inspired to look for it after hearing tales of the monstrous plant from two Christian missionaries who climbed the mountain in 2000.

"The plant produces spectacular traps which catch not only insects, but also rodents," McPherson said. "It is remarkable that it remained undiscovered until the 21st century."

Rats and other animals that fall into the plant's trap are slowly dissolved by acidic enzymes inside the pitcher and converted into energy.

As cool as this plant sounds, we can't help but fear it's only a matter of time before it develops a taste for human flesh.

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