A SECOND of the rare and endangered “corpse flower” has bloomed at Sarawak’s Kubah National Park, the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) announced.

Nature enthusiasts, botany lovers, and the curious have since been making their way to the park, some 20km from Kuching, to watch this rare botanical marvel.

The scientific name of this flowering plant, known for having the biggest flower in the world, is Amorphophallus titanum.

According to the sustainability advocates treehugger.com, the name Amorphophallus titanum is translated from ancient Greek, which means “giant, misshapen phallus”.

The plant’s common name refers to the odour that emanates from the blooms, said to be reminiscent of rotting flesh.

“With the arrival of the second Amorphophallus bloom, the park’s allure shines even brighter, underscoring its importance as a haven for rare and exceptional plant species,” the state’s custodian of national parks and wildlife stated on its website.

“Kubah National Park, a sanctuary teeming with diverse flora and fauna, has become a place for those seeking an immersive experience in an untouched paradise,” it added.

In an advisory to visitors, SFC warned the distinct odour of the Amorphophallus may not be suitable for everyone and advised those with sensitive noses or respiratory conditions to take appropriate precaution. – June 25, 2023.