We estimate the flower to bloom in the next three days."Bengkulu (ANTARA News) Two Rafflesia gadutensis have bloomed in two different locations in North Bengkulu District, about 70 kilometers from the Bengkulu city, Bengkulu Province.
"One of them has bloomed in the residential area of Kuro Tidur village, while the other has bloomed in Boven Lais protected forest area," said Septian Riki from Rare Flower Care Community (KPPL) of North Bengkulu, on Tuesday.
He said that the one which bloomed in Boven Lais on Monday (Oct 31) was around 58 centimeters, with roots hanging from the host plant, Liana sp.
After a visit to the location of the rare flowers, the members of KPPL of North Bengkulu said that the flowers were found hanging on the roots of the host plant, which is a rare position.
"Parasitic Rafflesia usually blooms in the roots that emerge from the soil but can also be attached to the roots that hang," he explained.
It would take about 45 minutes from Argamakmur city by motorcycle to view the rare flower in Kuro Tidur village. The flowers would be seen within 3.28 kilometers from Post Pokdarwis in Lais Air Dam 4.
The other Rafflesia gadutensis in Boven Lais Protected Forest area is just 10 minutes away from Argamakmur city, North Bengkulu.
"We estimate the flower to bloom in the next three days," he said.
Visitors who wish to enjoy the uniqueness of the rare flower, which has a smaller diameter than Rafflesia arnoldii, can visit the Boven Lais, where the Palak Siring waterfall is also located.
Besides Rafflesia gadutensis, there are three other rafflesia species endemic to the rainforest of Bengkulu, namely Rafflesia arnoldii, Rafflesia hasselti and Rafflesia bengkuluensis.
(Reported by Helti Marini Sipayung/Uu.A074/INE/KR-BSR/A014)
Editor: Priyambodo RH
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