Puspa is an Indonesian word for flower along with bunga and kembang. The word puspa is used to refer to Indonesian Floral Emblems. In a Presidential Decree (Keputusan Presiden Nomor 4/1993) Indonesia enthroned three flowers as National Flowers. The three flowers that are chosen to represent the national characteristics are the corpse flower (Rafflesia arnoldii), arabian jasmine (Jasminum sambac), and moon orchid (Phalaenopsis amabilis).
Inspired by those three flowers, I created three patterns in Javanese batik style.
PUSPA BANGSA
(National Flower)
Melati, or arabian jasmine (Jasminum sambac), was given the title of Puspa Bangsa (National Flower) because of its symbolism of purity. Arabian jasmine holds a huge role in tradition and rituals in Indonesian cultures.
PUSPA PESONA
(Flower of Charm)
Anggrek bulan, or moon orchid (Phalaenopsis amabilis), was given the title Puspa Pesona (flower of charm) because of its beautiful big petals. This flower is native to maritime Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and Australia.
PUSPA LANGKA
(Rare Flower)
Padma Raksasa, or corpse flower (Rafflesia arnoldii), was given the title Puspa Langka (rare flower) because of its rarity and as a message for people to protect their habitat. This majestic flower is protected by Indonesian law in Peraturan Pemerintah RI Nomor 7 Pasal 4 Tahun 1999.
