This is possibly the largest flower in the whole wide world. With an average 3 feet in diameter (1 metre), petals approximatelely 1 inch thick, and roughly 24 lbs. (11kg) weight, Rafflesia Arnoldii holds the record for bulk, as far as the flowery portion of the vegetable kingdom is concerned. You may wonder how come you have never heard of such a huge plant, but matter of fact is that it’s quite rare; most likely, that’s also the reason it doesn’t have a more “common” name, such as “Rafflesacks XL”. Hum, nevermind that. This vegetable mammoth only sprouts in Southwest Asia, and it’s regarded as an endangered plant. Not because humans are hunting it down for makiing huge decorations (for once, it’s not our fault), but actually due to the plant’s peculiarities. The standard Rafflesia Arnoldii takes several months to sprout, and then it only last for a few days before it rots. Further, it actually smells better when it dies, because during it’s fertile time-span it’s known to release nauseabund, disguting scents which supposedly are intended to attract pollinating animals, such as flies. All things considered, this is one of those miracles of natures which are definately pretty to look at, as long as you keep a reasonable distance. Good thing it’s such a huge flower!

For more detailed information, click here. That’s it folks, now you know all there is to know about the world’s largest, foulest-smelling flower. Aren´t you glad you stumbled upon this blog of oddities and curiosities?

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