Rafflesia verrucosa
Rafflesia verrucosa Balete, Pelser, Nickrent & Barcelona
Rafflesia verrucosa is a species of Rafflesia in the Rafflesiaceae family, native to the Philippines. It is an endophytic holoparasite that grows on the roots of an unidentified Tetrastigma species in montane forest habitats. The species was described in 2010 and is distinguished by its prominently warty perigone lobes and diaphragm. Its flowers, up to 16 cm in diameter, emit a mild putrescent smell when fresh. R. verrucosa is the tenth Rafflesia species recorded in the Philippines.
Description
Rafflesia verrucosa is found in montane forests on rocky, moderately sloping terrain in the Philippines. It is associated with Tetrastigma roots, where it produces buds and flowers underground. The species has a cupule, imbricate bracts, and perigone lobes with irregularly sinuate margins and prominent warts. Flowering appears to peak between October and December, with some activity continuing throughout the year. The habitat includes a canopy of oaks, laurels, and myrtles, with a dense understory of ferns, orchids, and vines. Local mammals, including tree shrews and squirrels, may interact with the plant, though their role in seed dispersal is not yet understood. The specific epithet refers to the warty texture of the perigone and diaphragm.
Distribution
Philippines
