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Description
Rafflesia Arnoldii, commonly known as the “corpse flower” or “stinking flower,” is the world’s largest flower. It is a parasitic plant that grows on the roots of Tetrastigma vines in the rainforests of Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. This plant has no stems, leaves, or roots, and only produces a single flower that can grow up to three feet in diameter and weigh up to 22 pounds. The flower emits a foul odor, similar to that of rotting flesh, to attract pollinators such as flies and carrion beetles.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Rafflesiaceae |
| Genus | Rafflesia |
Appearance
The Rafflesia Arnoldii flower is easily recognizable due to its large size and unique appearance. The flower has five thick, fleshy, red or maroon-colored petals that are covered in white spots. The center of the flower is hollow and resembles a bowl or cup. Inside the center of the flower, there are small, finger-like projections that surround the stigma and anthers. The flower also has a strong, unpleasant odor that is often compared to the smell of rotting meat.
Care Guide
Rafflesia Arnoldii is a parasitic plant that does not require any care as it obtains all of its nutrients from the host plant. However, this plant is difficult to cultivate and is not recommended for home gardeners.
Water
Rafflesia Arnoldii does not require any additional watering as it obtains all of its moisture from the host plant.
Fertilization
Rafflesia Arnoldii does not require any additional fertilization as it obtains all of its nutrients from the host plant.
Soil
Rafflesia Arnoldii does not require any soil as it grows on the roots of the Tetrastigma vine.
Sunlight
Rafflesia Arnoldii grows in the rainforests of Southeast Asia where it is shaded by the dense forest canopy. It does not require any direct sunlight.
Hardiness Zones
Rafflesia Arnoldii is not suitable for cultivation in any hardiness zone as it is a parasitic plant that requires a specific host plant to survive.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rafflesia Arnoldii does not have any known pests or diseases as it is a parasitic plant that does not have its own roots or leaves.
Habitat
Rafflesia Arnoldii is found in the rainforests of Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It grows on the roots of the Tetrastigma vine and can be found at elevations ranging from sea level to over 3,000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rafflesia Arnoldii endangered?
A: Yes, Rafflesia Arnoldii is considered endangered due to habitat loss and overcollection for medicinal purposes.
Q: How long does the Rafflesia Arnoldii flower last?
A: The Rafflesia Arnoldii flower lasts for only a few days before it withers and dies.
Q: How does the Rafflesia Arnoldii attract pollinators?
A: The Rafflesia Arnoldii emits a foul odor, similar to that of rotting flesh, to attract pollinators such as flies and carrion beetles.
Q: Can Rafflesia Arnoldii be grown in a home garden?
A: Rafflesia Arnoldii is not recommended for cultivation in a home garden as it is a parasitic plant that requires a specific host plant to survive.
Related Plants
- Rafflesia Hasseltii
- Rafflesia Kerrii
- Rafflesia Tuan-mudae
References
- “Rafflesia Arnoldii.” Encyclopaedia Britannica. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://www.britannica.com/plant/Rafflesia-arnoldii.
- “Rafflesia Arnoldii.” The Plant List. Accessed September 10, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2406179.
- “Rafflesia Arnoldii.” Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://naturalhistory.si.edu/education/teaching-resources/life-science/botany/rafflesia-arnoldii.
