Deep in Southeast Asia’s rainforests blooms a giant flower that smells like rotting flesh. Rare, parasitic and short-lived, Rafflesia arnoldii survives against the odds, but for how long?

The stench of decay announces death—but Rafflesia plants turn it on like a neon sign. Forty-two parasitic species exude the smell of rot to lure insects, thriving under the guise of death. From a ...

Deep within tropical rainforests grows a flower so enormous and rare that it defies nature's norms. Blooming without leaves, ...

The world’s largest flower, known as Rafflesia arnoldii, can be found in the rainforests of Asia. It can grow up to 3 feet in diameter and weigh as much as 15 pounds. Rafflesia arnoldii is believed to ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. GrrlScientist writes about evolution, ecology, behavior and health. All 42 known species of the parasitic plant genus Rafflesia, ...