San Francisco's infamous corpse flower is nearly ready to bloom
The Titan Arum, or corpse flower, is on the verge of blooming at the San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers, drawing attention for its putrid smell. Affectionately named Chanel by staff, this rare plant emits an odor similar to decaying flesh to attract pollinators. Native to Sumatra, Indonesia, the corpse flower can spend years in dormancy, blooming for the first time after seven to ten years and then every three to five years thereafter. The bloom is expected to last only two days, showcasing a deep burgundy interior when fully opened. Despite its unpleasant scent for humans, the flower's aroma is irresistible to carrion beetles and flies, which are crucial for its pollination.
The event is significant for local plant enthusiasts and contributes to the Conservatory's reputation for housing unique flora. Visitors can experience the bloom in person or watch it live online. The Conservatory operates from 10 a. m. to 4:30 p.
m. , Thursday through Tuesday, with the last entry at 4 p. m.