The Botanical Gardens at the University of Berkeley were the scene of a rare occurrence recently with the blooming of a ‘Corpse Plant’, and the emission of a pungent aroma.
The star of the UC Berkeley’s botanical gardens has had its chance at center stage and taken its final curtain call. ‘Trudy the Titan’, a member of the not so sweet smelling Titan Arum plants, began opening on July 25 and finished the following day before wilting soon after.
The species can take anywhere from 7 to 10 years to produce its first bloom; after which, the timing of subsequent blooms are unpredictable. Although there are instances of the plant producing its signature malodorous single bloom two years in a row, a more likely timetable is every two to three years. On the other hand, some plants will take another 7 to10 years to bloom again.
The odor produced by the bloom, which is strongest when it first opens, is reminiscent of rotting meat. It is assumed that the reason for this it to attract carrion insects that can then serve as cross-pollinators.
More than 1,000 strong-stomached visitors were on hand to view this rare event, making the Sunday the busiest day the botanical garden had seen in 12 years. Eight other plants are under propagation, but until one of them is ready to bloom, postcard printing services can provide a stand-in for the Corpse Plant, without the smell of course.
