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World's largest flower blooms pungent smell in Indonesia
CGTN

Rafflesia arnoldii has the largest known individual flower in the world. But, unlike other flowers, it doesn't let out a pleasant and fragrant smell when it blooms. On August 30, 2021, a resident in Kepahiang district, Bengkulu, Indonesia found a Rafflesia arnoldii blooming in his yard.

With a diameter of one meter, the parasitic flower has no roots, shoots, stems, or leaves. The stinky smell during its bloom might be annoying for humans, but it is surely inviting to carrion flies, who act as the plant's pollinators. 

Native to Southeast Asia, Rafflesia arnoldii is one of three national flowers in Indonesia. 

(All images via CFP)

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