rafflesia

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Any of a group of parasitic plants without stems, native to Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. There are 14 species, several of which are endangered by the destruction of the forests where they grow. The fruit is used locally for medicine. The largest flowers in the world are produced by R. arnoldiana. About 1 m/3 ft across, they exude a smell of rotting flesh, which attracts flies to pollinate them. (Genus Rafflesia, family Rafflesiaceae.)

Black reflects the African origins of the islanders. Red stands for the vigour of the people. White represents hope. Effective date: 27 February 1967. >>