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Few combinations of words seem as contradictory as corpse and flower. Yet, corpse flowers not only exist but are also a colossal marvel. The Amorphophallus titanum, commonly known as the corpse flower, is a massive plant that emits a foul odor resembling decomposing flesh when it blooms. These flowers are a testament to nature’s strangest wonders, and you might find one nearby—nearly every state has one. If not, you can still experience this rare event virtually in the coming days, and we highly recommend it.
What exactly is a corpse flower?
The corpse flower holds the title of the world’s largest flowering plant. Originating from the tropical regions of western Sumatra, Indonesia, it has a lifespan of 30–40 years. Its central spadix, or log-like tube, can reach heights of up to 15 feet, while its leaves can span nearly 13 feet wide. The exterior resembles a typical green flower bulb, with petals that are usually deep red or burgundy. Belonging to the araceae family, it shares lineage with smaller plants like philodendrons, calla lilies, and peace lilies, as well as the infamous skunk cabbage.
These flowers typically bloom once every seven to ten years, and each blooming event occurs only once annually. Upon opening, the flower releases a powerful, foul odor often likened to decaying flesh, earning it the name “corpse flower.” Mytour’s senior health editor, Beth Skwarecki, describes the scent as reminiscent of “warm garbage” and compares the experience to passing by an extremely ripe dumpster on a hot summer day.
What causes the corpse flower to emit such a foul odor?
As explained by the gardening resource Treehugger, the scientific name Amorphophallus titanum originates from ancient Greek, meaning “giant, misshapen phallus.” This towering structure serves to attract insects necessary for pollination. The strong, unpleasant smell lures insects such as dung beetles and flesh flies, which are naturally drawn to decaying matter.
Floriculturist Tim Pollak, in an interview with Live Science, shared insights about this rare plant, stating, “Corpse flowers can also heat up to 98 degrees Fahrenheit (36.7 Celsius) to better deceive insects.” This heat mimics the conditions of decomposing organic matter, aiding the plant’s survival.
Where can you locate a corpse flower?
Corpse flowers are classified as an endangered species, which explains their rarity in the wild and why many people may not be familiar with them. However, despite their scarcity, numerous states and botanical conservatories cultivate and even give them unique names.
In 2017 and again in 2020, the San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers witnessed the blooming of their corpse flower, named Terra the Titan. Recently, a corpse flower at the U.S. Botanical Garden in Washington, D.C., bloomed last month, while Pittsburgh’s “Romero” last bloomed in 2016. Although there isn’t a centralized tracking system for these flowers in the U.S., a Wikipedia page provides a comprehensive list of notable blooms across the country.
How can you experience a corpse flower blooming in real-time?
The Huntington Botanical Garden in San Marino, California, is currently anticipating the bloom of their corpse flower, nicknamed “Stankosaurus Rex”, which stands at an impressive 82 inches tall. While its final height at blooming remains uncertain, the event has generated significant excitement among staff and visitors. You can follow the progress of this rare occurrence through The Huntington conservatory’s live feed.
The live stream will remain active in the days leading up to the bloom and throughout the entire flowering period. Be sure to check back regularly to witness Stankosaurus Rex in all its pungent splendor.
