A gigantic flower that smells like rotting flesh is currently on view at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, but only for a limited time.
The rare bloom of the Amorphophallus Titanum, commonly known as the corpse flower, is on loan from Grand Valley State University. The plant is a part of GVSU’s collection, donated in 2015 by Tim Strickler, professor emeritus of biomedical sciences was affectionately dubbed “The Beast” by GVSU’s biology department.
The corpse flower is renowned as the largest unbranched inflorescence in the world, often growing between six and eight feet tall in cultivation. When in bloom, it emits a powerful stench that attracts carrion beetles and flies, its natural pollinators.
“The Beast” was expected to reach its peak bloom on Tuesday, June 18, but visitors can still catch a glimpse (and a whiff) of this extraordinary flower through today at Meijer Gardens, open until 5 p.m.
The corpse flower is one of the largest flowering plants in the world. It can take up to a decade to bloom, and its flowering period lasts only 24 to 36 hours. The plant emits a strong odor akin to decaying meat, which attracts carrion beetles and flies, essential for its pollination. Native to Sumatra, Indonesia, it was first reported in 1878. The corpse flower’s inflorescence can grow up to 12 feet tall in the wild, and six to eight feet in cultivation. Despite its appearance, the bloom is a cluster of small flowers on a central spike (spadix), surrounded by a petal-like spathe.
This is not the same corpse flower that bloomed at Meijer Gardens a few years ago. Meijer Gardens has its own corpse flower, “Putricia,” which is yet to bloom again.
Corpse Flower FAQ’s
A corpse flower typically blooms every 7 to 10 years, although this can vary based on growing conditions and the health of the plant. The bloom lasts for about 24 to 36 hours before collapsing and losing its odor.
The corpse flower is native to the rainforests of Sumatra, Indonesia. In its natural habitat, the corpse flower can reach heights of up to 12 feet. Its leaf structure can also be enormous, growing up to 20 feet tall.
These plants need warm temperatures, high humidity, well-draining soil, ample space for their large tubers, and adequate light, usually provided in controlled greenhouse environments. In its native rainforest, the corpse flower plays a critical role by attracting pollinators like carrion beetles and flies, aiding in the pollination of various plant species, and contributing to the biodiversity of the ecosystem. The odor mimics the smell of decaying meat, attracting carrion beetles and flesh flies. These insects, in search of food or a place to lay eggs, move from flower to flower, facilitating pollination.
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