This is the first time that three Rafflesia kemumu flowers have bloomed simultaneously at the same location, Dani Umbara, a member of the Rare Flower Caring Community (KPPL) of North Bengkulu, stated here on Monday.
"Usually, only one or at the most two Rafflesia flowers bloom at the same location, though this time, for the foremost instant, we have found three flowers, so this moment is very rare," he stated.
Visitors have to traverse a fairly heavy, slippery ground on foot for 45 minutes to reach the location of the rare flowers.
The blooming flowers lie on the same path as that to the natural tourist area of the Curug 9 waterfall.
Visitors can enjoy the view of the fully bloomed flowers for the next two days.
Currently, local residents are guarding the presence of rare flowers in their natural habitat.
"This location is apt for those favoring ecotourism because they can also visit the Curug 9 waterfall," Umbara pointed out.
Currently, five types of Rafflesia sp have been identified in the Bengkulu forest: Rafflesia arnoldii, Rafflesia bengkuluensis, Rafflesia gadutensis, Rafflesia hasselti, and Rafflesia kemumu.
Of the five types of Rafflesia, the arnoldii variety has the largest diameter, reaching over one meter, while the Rafflesia kemumu type is of a smaller size or with a diameter ranging between 50 and 60 centimeters. Related news: EARTH WIRE -- Crowds gather to witness Rafflesia flowers bloom
Related news: Two Rafflesia gadutensis bloom in N. Bengkulu
Translator: Helti Marini S, Fardah
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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