The enchanting story of Ardabiev, a young man who believes he has created the world's most miraculous and important plant, the cancer-curing Ardabiola. He is excited about his discovery and eager to prove its worth. But, before he can fully test the powers of his little plant, Ardabiev suffers from a series of disasters. He gives up his ambitious plans for Ardabiola. Disillusioned, he sets off for a long vacation, leaving his plant to die...only to discover that it has an amazing life of its own and a profound significance for Ardabiev himself.