
Flower that smells like rotting flesh could be the largest ever found
The Rafflesia blooms only for a few days
One of the biggest flowers in the world, which smells like rotting flesh, has been found in the Indonesian rainforest.

The flower, which belongs to the Rafflesia genus, measures over three and a half feet across and blooms for only one week. It smells like rotting flesh in order to attract flies and carrion beetles.
Rafflesia is a genus of plants which all smell bad in order to pollinate. This species appears to be Rafflesia tuan-mudae, which does not smell as bad as other species.

Indonesian conservationists believe this may be the biggest specimen ever found. Officers controlling the forest of Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park discovered the flowers at Rhino Camp Resort Sukaraja, in the west coast of Lampung, Indonesia, earlier this month.
The previous record was held by a bloom from the same space. Rafflesia plants are parasitic and have no leaves, stem or roots.
Authors

An Offer to Love - just £3.50 every issue*
Spread the cost of your subscription with an offer you'll love and pay just £3.50* every issue. Or lock in greater savings and save 51% on the magazine shop price - just £34.99 every year! Your subscription - your way! *UK only

Container Gardening Special Edition
The Gardens Illustrated Guide to Container Gardening.
In this special edition, discover colourful flower combinations and seasonal planting schemes for pots designed by leading plantspeople, and essential know-how for container gardening success. Just £9.99 inc UK p&pBy entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Gardens of the Globe
From botanical wonders in Australia to tranquil havens closer to home in Ireland, let this guide help you to discover some of the most glorious gardens around the world
By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.