Visitors endure foul smell for a rare corpse flower bloom

In Brooklyn, New York, visitors flocked to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden to witness the rare bloom of the corpse flower, commonly referred to as 'Smelliot.' This event did not occur recently, but rather was noted for its limited time availability, as the corpse flower is native to Indonesia and blooms only for a short period of two to three days. The inflorescence can reach towering heights of up to 12 feet and is composed of hundreds of smaller male and female flowers. Visitors described the aroma as a blend of rot that elicited various comparisons, including that of rotting meat, smelly feet, and even a zoo's unpleasant scents. People waited for hours, undeterred by the putrid scent, as they were drawn to this unique botanical phenomenon. It is an unusual occurrence in the United States, highlighting the rarity of corpse flowers in botanical gardens across the country. Chris Sprindis, a gardener at the venue, explained that the foul odor, while unpleasant for humans, serves a biological purpose. It attracts beetles for pollination, unlike more common flowers that lure in sweet-smelling pollinators like bees and moths. Many patrons shared their experiences, expressing exhilaration over the stench while acknowledging that it will likely be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Therefore, the bloom of this particular corpse flower galvanized interest from many nature lovers, contributing to its status as a special exhibit in the garden's offerings. The collective response of visitors indicates a fascinating interplay between a dislike for the stench and an appreciation for this remarkable botanical event.