A STUDY IN CONTRASTS: Can you be both stately and, well, stenchy? Might you be described as rather regal but also prone to reeking? Is there a nice way to talk about your powerful presence and also your ability to be rather putrid? Fans of Corpse Flowers, those rare specimens that bloom, in smelly fashion, only briefly, would absolutely say these botanical icons are studies in colorful contrasts, ably encapsulating several disparate ideas at the same time. Visitors to the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas are finding that out as September is revving up, for a Corpse Flower is just starting to bloom. The bloom, and accompanying smell, is expected to last around 48 hours, so making your way to the leafy spot by Sept. 4, at the latest, is suggested.
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DONATED IN 2016: While this particular Corpse Flower arrived at the garden nearly a decade ago, the current bloom is its very first. And if you know your stinky specimens, you know that the stink gets stinkier as the sun begins to set, so count on the garden to observe later evening hours Sept. 2 and 3. “We are extremely fortunate to again be presenting a bloom from our permanent collection, the first bloom for this particular plant,” said SDBG President and CEO Ari Novy, PHD. “The blooming of a Corpse Flower has become an international sensation, intriguing people from around the world with its fleeting flower. The heat and smell are used to attract pollinator insects, while also attracting curious humans excited to experience this beautiful and smelly rock star of the plant world.”
VISITING HOURS, admission, and all of the tips you need to nose, er, know are listed on the San Diego Botanic Garden site.
