‘Putricia’ attracts the crowds

The rotting corpse flower (Amorphophallus titanum)  at the Sydney Botanic Gardens is a rare and captivating botanical event that has become a crowd favourite when it blooms.

t’s a bit of a tradition for Corpse Flowers to receive nicknames when they bloom: @thehuntingtonlibrary recently celebrated the flowering of Odora, Scentennial, Stankosaurus Rex and Stinkie, while @denverbotanic had Lil’ Stinker burst into bloom in 2022. The nickname given to the Sydney plant is fondly referred to as Putricia’

This unique plant, native to the rainforests of Sumatra, Indonesia, is known for its dramatic and unusual flowering, which occurs infrequently—sometimes only once every few years. The bloom of the corpse flower is not just notable for its size and appearance but also for the powerful odor it releases, which resembles rotting flesh. This smell, though unpleasant to humans, serves a critical ecological purpose. It attracts carrion-feeding insects, such as flies and beetles, which play an essential role in pollinating the plant.

When in bloom, the corpse flower reveals a striking appearance. The large spathe, a petal-like structure, unfurls in a deep purple or maroon hue, surrounding the central spadix, which can grow up to 3m. The event is brief—lasting only two to three days—adding an element of urgency for those who want to witness the spectacle. The pungent smell typically peaks at night, which coincides with the activity of nocturnal pollinators.

The Sydney Botanic Gardens has become a key location for people eager to experience the rare bloom. Due to the plant’s unpredictable flowering schedule, it generates excitement each time it begins to show signs of blooming. The gardens have become a focal point for plant enthusiasts, researchers, and the general public to witness and learn about this extraordinary species. During these rare events, the garden hosts guided tours and talks about the plant’s unique pollination mechanisms, its native habitat, and its role in the broader ecosystem.

Amorphophallus titanum is considered endangered in the wild, primarily due to habitat loss in Sumatra’s rainforests and the impacts of climate change. As the plant faces increasing threats in its natural environment, the Sydney Botanic Gardens plays an important role in its conservation. By cultivating the species in controlled conditions, researchers are able to study its growth patterns, reproduction, and potential for survival outside its native habitat. This work is crucial in supporting global efforts to protect endangered species and preserving biodiversity.

The rare blooming of the rotting corpse flower at the Sydney Botanic Gardens is not only a botanical marvel but also a reminder of the fragility of ecosystems worldwide. It highlights the need for conservation and raises public awareness about the importance of protecting both rare species and their habitats. This event brings together a community of nature lovers, educators, and scientists, all united by the fascination and importance of preserving our planet’s most unique and vulnerable plants.

South Australian Botanic Gardens have experienced the same flowering Amorphophallus titanum  in the past.