Inp.polri.go.id - Bengkulu. Two Rafflesia arnoldii, the world’s largest individual flowers, bloomed simultaneously in Rejang Lebong, Bengkulu, drawing interest from local and foreign visitors, including researchers from Oxford University in the United Kingdom.

“There are two blooming Rafflesia and one active bud. This shows the habitat here is very healthy and productive,” said Tedi Riski, the Head of the Rejang Lebong Rare Flora Protection Group (KPPL), on Sunday (23/11/2025), as quoted by antaranews.com.

The rare double bloom was found in Selamat Sudiarjo Village, Bermani Ulu District. One additional bud is expected to blossom within weeks, indicating a thriving habitat at the foothills. The location is steep, reportedly up to 60 degrees, and surrounded by multiple young buds that risk damage if stepped on. Visitors are urged to avoid harming the fragile host vines that sustain the species.

Local community leader Saikul Latief emphasized that the area has seven active blooming sites, attracting tourists from Russia, India, China, the Philippines, and other countries. He urged the regional government to develop it into an ecotourism destination.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)