Rafflesia arnoldii
Rafflesia arnoldii R.Br.
Rafflesia arnoldii produces the largest individual flower on Earth, reaching over 3 feet in diameter. This rare parasitic plant has no leaves, stems, or roots and emits a rotting flesh odor to attract pollinating flies.
Rafflesiaceae (Rafflesia family)
Unpredictable, flowers last only 5-7 days, blooming can occur any time with peaks November-January
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: darlingtonias and canarinas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Rafflesia arnoldii symbolizes the incredible biodiversity and fragility of Southeast Asian rainforests. Called the "panda of the plant world," it represents conservation challenges and natural wonders. Local communities harvest buds for perceived medicinal properties, though this threatens wild populations. The flower was first documented by Western science in 1818 when British naturalist Joseph Arnold discovered it in Sumatra. It embodies the tension between scientific wonder and habitat destruction, serving as an icon for rainforest conservation. The plant demonstrates remarkable evolutionary adaptations, including horizontal gene transfer from its host.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Shade (grows within host tissue, flower emerges in forest understory)
Water
Found near water sources, requires humid tropical conditions
Soil
Various (acidic, neutral, alkaline), Depends on host plant location
Expert Growing Tips
Cannot be cultivated in typical garden settings
Requires specific Tetrastigma vine host
Grafting infected vines has succeeded only at Bogor Botanical Gardens
Seeds difficult to germinate; require karrikin compound found in wildfire smoke
Buds take 9-21 months to develop
Nearly impossible to grow outside native range
Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Botanical garden specimens (extremely rare in cultivation)
- Conservation education displays
- Ecotourism attractions in native habitat
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Rafflesia arnoldii
What is the world's largest flower?
Rafflesia arnoldii holds the record for the largest single flower on Earth, with blooms reaching over 3 feet (1 meter) in diameter and weighing up to 24 pounds (11 kg).
Why does Rafflesia smell like rotting meat?
Rafflesia arnoldii emits a putrid odor resembling decaying flesh to attract carrion flies and beetles, which are its natural pollinators. The smell comes from sulfur compounds like dimethyl disulfide.
Can you grow Rafflesia at home?
No, Rafflesia cannot be grown in home gardens. It is an obligate parasite requiring specific Tetrastigma vines, and cultivation has succeeded only at specialized botanical gardens in its native range.
How long does Rafflesia flower last?
Rafflesia flowers last only 5-7 days. The buds take 9-21 months to develop, making the brief blooming period even more remarkable and contributing to low pollination success rates.
Is Rafflesia endangered?
Yes, approximately 60% of Rafflesia species are at risk of extinction due to habitat loss from deforestation, making conservation of rainforest ecosystems critical for their survival.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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