Como Park Conservatory in Minnesota is about to experience a rare botanical event with the blooming of a corpse flower named “Horace.” The flower, with its off-putting aroma reminiscent of rotting flesh, will be on display at the conservatory’s Exhibit Gallery from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Visitors can anticipate a blooming extravaganza around May 19th, although the exact timing is unpredictable. For those unable to visit in person, a livestream has been set up to watch the flower unfurl and emit its distinctive scent from the comfort of their screens.
The corpse flower, amorphophallus titanum, can take between four to ten years to bloom, with the bloom itself lasting only 24-48 hours. Within this short period, viewers can witness the different stages the flower goes through, generating heat and emitting its carrion scent to attract pollinators. After pollination, the fertilized flowers develop into bright red to orange fruits before the plant goes dormant. Originating from the rainforests of Sumatra, the corpse flower can now be found in botanical gardens worldwide, offering botany enthusiasts a unique opportunity to witness a rare event.
The conservatory’s marketing and public relations manager, Matt Reinartz, encourages people to witness the remarkable botanical event, raising awareness about the importance of preserving endangered species and their habitats. For those interested in witnessing this infrequent occurrence, the conservatory’s website provides a livestream link for viewers to check in as often as they wish during the bloom period. While viewers won’t experience the odor firsthand, they can still witness this once-in-a-generation event live, celebrating the beauty and uniqueness of nature.
Botanical enthusiasts and curious spectators are invited to witness the rare blooming of the corpse flower “Horace” at Como Park Conservatory in Minnesota. This odorous event is not to be missed, despite the foul scent emitted by the flower. With a livestream available for remote viewing, people can observe the flower’s growth, development, and eventual collapse within the short bloom period. The flower attracts pollinators with its distinct scent and heat generation during the bloom, offering viewers a glimpse into the intricate life cycle of this unique plant species.
The corpse flower’s bloom is a rare and captivating botanical event, providing a glimpse into the life cycle of this unusual plant species. Viewers can appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of nature by witnessing the different stages of the flower’s bloom, from attracting pollinators to fruit development and eventual dormancy. As botany lovers celebrate this remarkable occasion, the conservatory aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving endangered species and their habitats. Whether watching in person or through the livestream, this event offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate its diversity and wonder.
