The correct spelling of the scientific name for the odoriferous Amorphophallus plant is "Amorphophallus rivieri". This spelling follows the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) convention, which ensures uniformity and accuracy in the writing of words across different languages. The name is pronounced as [æmɔːrfəʊfæləs rɪviːəri], with emphasis on the "phal" syllable. Though difficult to pronounce, this name accurately identifies the species of this unique and pungent plant.
Amorphophallus Rivieri, commonly known as the corpse flower, is a perennial plant species belonging to the Araceae family. Native to the rainforests of Sumatra in Indonesia, it is characterized by its large inflorescence that emits a putrid scent resembling that of a decomposing corpse, thus its common name.
The Amorphophallus Rivieri plant consists of a tuberous underground stem that produces a single gigantic, vertical, leaf-like structure. This leaf, also known as the petiole, can reach heights of up to 10 feet and has a distinct umbrella-like shape. The petiole is composed of numerous leaflets that radiate from the central stalk and provide support to the overall structure. This leaf arises from the ground only once a year, and its primary purpose is to gather sunlight and convert it into energy for the tuber's growth.
However, the most remarkable aspect of Amorphophallus Rivieri is its inflorescence. It emerges from the ground in a separate flowering event from the leaf production. The inflorescence consists of a spadix surrounded by a large spathe or bract. The spadix is covered in thousands of tiny individual flowers, and when fully open, can reach heights of up to 6 feet or more. The spathe enveloping the spadix is typically a deep reddish-purple color. The blooming of the corpse flower is an extraordinary event as it releases a very potent and unpleasant odor to attract carrion beetles and flies for pollination. This unique scent, combined with the distinct visual appearance, makes the Amorphophallus Rivieri one of the most captivating and iconic plants in the world of botany.
The word "Amorphophallus Rivieri" is a scientific name given to a particular plant in the genus Amorphophallus. The etymology of this name can be broken down as follows:
- "Amorpho" is originated from the Greek word "amorphos", which means "without form" or "shapeless".
- "Phallus" is derived from the Greek word "phallos", referring to the male reproductive organ (i.e., penis).
- "Rivieri" is the specific epithet given to honor the French botanist Édouard Marie Heckel, who specialized in the study of plants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Therefore, "Amorphophallus Rivieri" literally means "formless penis", which describes the unique and distinctive shape of the inflorescence, or flower structure, of this plant species.