Crowds gathered in San Francisco to witness a rare and fascinating event - the blooming of an endangered tropical flower known as the Amorphophallus titanum, or corpse flower. This unique plant, which emits a strong odor when it blooms, began its spectacle at the California Academy of Sciences.
The corpse flower, named Mirage, started blooming on Tuesday afternoon and is expected to remain in bloom for one to three days. This extraordinary event only occurs once every seven to 10 years, making it a truly special occasion for visitors and researchers alike.
Described as emitting a scent reminiscent of rotting food or sweaty socks, the corpse flower's odor serves a specific purpose in nature. The foul smell attracts flies, which help in pollination by carrying pollen from one flower to another. This process aids in the plant's reproduction and survival.
The Amorphophallus titanum is native to the Indonesian island of Sumatra and is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. With fewer than 1,000 individual plants remaining in the wild, the blooming of Mirage at the California Academy of Sciences is not only a rare spectacle but also a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts to protect these unique and valuable species.
Donated to the museum in 2017, Mirage has been a highlight of the rainforest exhibit since 2020, captivating visitors with its impressive size and intriguing blooming cycle. The opportunity to witness such a remarkable event has drawn crowds eager to experience the wonder of nature up close.
