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Police Investigate Theft of Titan Arum 'David' From Dortmund Botanical Garden

The city says the rare corpse flower requires expert care to survive.

Overview

  • Garden staff discovered the disappearance during a routine check on October 8 and filed a police complaint.
  • Police say the theft likely occurred between September 22 and October 8, report no suspects, and are asking witnesses for tips.
  • Gardeners believe the perpetrators dug up the 20–30 kilogram tuber and refilled the container with substrate after removal.
  • The plant was housed in a public display house without additional security measures such as video surveillance, according to the city.
  • Known for rare short-lived blooms that drew thousands in 2018 and 2021, the loss is described as significant as staff publicly appeal for the plant’s return.