Corpse Flower Blooms at Sacramento State, Emits Distinct Odor.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A rare flower, known as the corpse flower, is currently in bloom at Sacramento State University, captivating attention with its unique and unpleasant smell.
This unusual flower, which is native to Sumatra, Indonesia, can be found in the university’s greenhouse near Sequoia Hall. The corpse flower earns its name from the foul odor it releases, reminiscent of decaying flesh. According to the United States Botanic Garden, the flower also produces heat, which helps carry the smell over greater distances.
The corpse flower is one of the largest flowers globally, reaching heights of up to 8 feet when cultivated, and can grow as tall as 12 feet in its natural habitat. However, it does not bloom annually; instead, it flowers only when it has stored enough energy, a process that can take several years. Once it blooms, the flower’s life span is brief, lasting between one and three days.
“It’s really only stinky for one day,” said Daniel Pfarr, the greenhouse manager at Sacramento State. “Just an immense, terrible smell. This plant only blooms every three years, and today’s the day.”
When KCRA 3 crews visited the campus, they observed flies swarming around the flower, drawn by its strong scent. The foul smell will fade once the flower’s bloom concludes.
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