A giant stinky flower at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney named Putricia is capturing the attention of thousands, as it officially began to bloom on Thursday, January 18, 2024. Known scientifically as Amorphophallus titanum, this peculiar plant holds the title for having the biggest and smelliest flower spike in the world. Its notorious stench, reminiscent of rotting flesh, has become the much-anticipated highlight for visitors and online viewers alike.
Putricia's bloom follows just over a week of anticipation, with horticulturists remarking on its growth and signs of flowering. The flower, also referred to as the corpse flower, emits its foul odor for only 24 hours, during which the garden has extended opening hours to allow visitors to experience this unique event until midnight.
“We love the fact this is getting people interested in botany and horticulture,” said John Siemon, horticulture director at the gardens. “It’s remarkable to see so many people engaging with Putricia.” More than 5,000 visitors flocked to the gardens since its opening for the public, with reports indicating over 200,000 viewers tuning online to watch the live-stream titled “A Plant to Die For.”
The blooming of Putricia marks only the fifth time this rare flower has bloomed at the gardens since the last occurrence over 15 years ago. “Putricia is astounding. She is glorious, she is stunning,” observed Sophie Daniel, Manager of Interpretation & Placemaking at the RBG, as reactions from fans poured on social media. Live stream viewers shared their excitement with quotes such as “All hail Putricia” and “Putricia is our queen,” showcasing her newfound celebrity status.
The plant is native to the rainforests of Sumatra, Indonesia, and its rarity is accentuated by its status as endangered, with fewer than 1,000 specimens remaining in the wild. The unique bloom of the plant relies on specific environmental conditions, thriving best at around 22 degrees Celsius and 75 percent humidity. The flowering occurs as the spadix experiences rapid growth, causing the spathe to unfurl and release its notorious odor.
“If you’ve got some wet teenage socks…that’s the kind of smell you’re getting,” humorously described Paul Nicholson, Manager of the RBG’s Volunteer Programs, giving potential visitors a taste of what to expect.
Daily measurements were taken as horticulturalists monitored Putricia closely leading up to its bloom. After its spathe fully opens, natural pollination will be explored, possibly leading to the creation of up to 400 seeds. “We plan on pollinating her female reproductive organs,” Siemon revealed. “If we achieve it, we would distribute these to other conservation agencies.”
While naturally, these flowers are pollinated by insects attracted by the stink, the gardens will utilize pollen from recent blooms to aid the process. The excitement surrounding Putricia even prompted some lively online communities to form, where fans discussed their observations and shared artworks inspired by the flower.
“People have become quite obsessed with her. She’s taken on a life of her own,” said Daniella Pasqualini, Horticultural Development Supervisor at the gardens. The lively buzz was palpable online, as viewers commented on the feed and cheered on Putricia's progress with messages like “I would wait years for her.”
With continued support from the community and growing interest, the garden staff ensured they provided both informative experiences and entertainment surrounding this historic bloom. The atmosphere mimicked more of a high society gala rather than your average garden event with velvet ropes and photographers capturing every moment.
Returning to the essence of what makes Putricia so special, the ultimate goal goes beyond just the spectacle. Visitors’ contributions to the gardens through entry donations play a significant role in ensuring the protection and sustainability of such endangered species.
Putricia not only serves as entertainment for hundreds but also as a focal point for botanical conservation efforts. By the end of its bloom, Putricia is set to leave behind not just memories but potentially new life and future blooms across the globe. The Royal Botanic Garden has once again proven to be at the forefront of plant conservation, raising awareness and excitement around rare flora like Putricia.