Visitors flock to Paraguay for glimpse of rare giant lily pads

Jan. 9 (UPI) -- A natural phenomenon that occurs once every three of four years in the Southern Hemisphere is drawing tourists to Paraguay.

Victoria cruziana, called "alligator lilies" by locals because they are large enough to hide a small alligator, span about five feet in diameter. The aquatic plants have returned this year, drawing people in masses to see the wonder.

The off-the-beaten-path attraction is in Piquete Cue, about 15 miles north of the capital city of Asuncion.

Tourists are paying to see the megalilies and take a boat ride to see them in the wild.

Because locals believe the giant lilies are good for making tea to fight asthma and bronchial issues, authorities issued warnings that fines will be given to those caught harvesting the plants.