Rare Titan Arum Tuber Stolen from Göttingen Botanical Garden

Göttingen, Germany — Ekhbary News Agency

Police in Göttingen have launched an investigation into the theft of a rare Titanwurz tuber from the city's Old Botanical Garden. This unique plant, native to Indonesia, is celebrated as one of the world's largest flowers, blooming only every few years and drawing significant public interest. It's a curious case, for what it's worth, highlighting the unusual targets some thieves pursue.

Investigation into Missing Tuber

The valuable tuber, reportedly nearing its blooming phase, vanished from the Cycadeenhaus between June 14 and 17. Investigators confirmed the plant's absence has been noted since mid-June, with no trace found. Authorities estimate the damage at several hundred euros and have appealed for witnesses.

Previous Theft in Dortmund

This incident recalls a similar theft last October, when a 20 to 30-kilogram Titanwurz specimen, named 'David,' disappeared from the Rombergpark Botanical Garden in Dortmund. That plant, known for its pungent odor during its brief bloom, was never recovered. The Titanwurz's rarity makes it a prized possession for botanical gardens.