rafflesia arnoldi

 Rafflesia arnoldi

 Rafflesia arnoldii, often called the giant padma or corpse flower, is a unique parasitic plant native to Sumatra and Kalimantan. It is renowned as the largest single flower in the world, reaching a diameter of 1 meter and weighing up to 11 kg. This flower has no roots, stems, or leaves and emits a foul odor to attract insects.

Before it begins to flower, the leaves and the stem become dry and look dead, but the main root in the ground is still alive. When it blooms, it has an unpleasant smell which attract insect. But when they touch the bottom part, they die.

Rafflesia arnoldii is a fascinating plant due to its enormous size and unique characteristics. However, it is also endangered because of habitat destruction. Therefore, conservation efforts are important to protect this extraordinary species.