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, ...

Known for producing the largest flowers in the world, the unique Rafflesia does not have stems, roots, or leaves, thus, it could not perform photosynthesis, which is common to plants. Besides its ...

One of the world’s freakiest floral phenomena starts from a seed the size of sawdust beneath the bark of a woody vine. After months or years (no one really knows), a parasitic bud may emerge, a golf ...

LAGUNA, Philippines – With five tongue-like petals encircling its bowl-shaped center, and with its distinctive odor, the world’s largest solitary flower – Rafflesia – is hard to miss. But only a few ...