Buzz
While the scent of gym socks and rotting garbage might not appeal to most, the corpse flower is an exception. As reported by the Associated Press, crowds in Sydney are flocking to witness (and endure) the stench of this unique plant. For those who prefer to avoid the smell, a livestream offers a chance to observe the rare blooming event odor-free.
Putricia, the corpse flower at the Royal Sydney Botanic Garden—a blend of putrid and Patricia—has become a major attraction. Visitors are queuing for up to three hours to witness her bloom and experience her infamous aroma, with over 20,000 admirers already paying their respects.
What makes Putricia so special? The last blooming of a corpse flower at the Royal Sydney Botanic Garden occurred 15 years ago. In its natural habitat, this species blooms for just 24 hours every few years, making it a rare sight. Native exclusively to the rainforests of Sumatra, Indonesia, the corpse flower is endangered due to deforestation. Putricia reached full bloom on January 23. You can catch the 24-hour livestream on the Botanic Gardens of Sydney’s YouTube channel below.
What Exactly Is a Corpse Flower?
The corpse flower isn’t just one flower—it’s a collection of many. Its central spadix is encircled by two rings of female and male flowers at its base.
One of the plant’s most remarkable traits is its enormous size. It holds the record for the largest unbranched inflorescence, a structure made up of smaller flowers. While cultivated versions grow 6 to 8 feet tall, wild corpse flowers can tower up to 12 feet.
The corpse flower’s infamous odor is its most notable characteristic. Its central stalk emits pungent compounds similar to those found in decomposing flesh, earning it the apt name corpse flower.
