There's an interesting phenomenon occurring right now at Vancouver’s Biodel Conservatory.
A rare plant species called the Titan Arum, or “corpse flower,” is now in full bloom for the first time in years and it reportedly smells putrid.
Holding the title of "World's largest plant, the corpse flower only blooms every couple years for a short 48 hour period, during which it releases a distinctly putrid scent used to attract pollinators.
Several statements have been released by the Vancouver Park Board, comparing the plant's scent to rotting flesh, hot garbage, discarded diapers and sweaty socks.
Uncle Fester is a stinker! It is just putrid this morning. Dead rats and smelly socks would best describe the scent this morning. We’re open at 7am. #bloedelcorpseflower pic.twitter.com/5IHHQvvlyk
— Bloedel Conservatory (@BloedelConserv) July 16, 2018
Despite the putrid comparisons, the plant is drawing a lot of interest from people wanting to see and smell the plants rare blooming period.
The Biodel Conservatory has advised the public to be prepared for long line-ups that are expected over the next two days.
@BloedelConserv 7:30 & the line up is long! Looking forward to smelling, um seeing Uncle Fester. 😷 pic.twitter.com/EFY0XHqwaZ
— Jewels (@jool64) July 16, 2018
According to the Park Board, corpse flowers generally need seven to 10 years to bloom for the first time and its next bloom may not occur for another two to three years, or even a decade.
