29-Jan-2025

Corpse Flower

Environment & Ecology

Why in News ? 

A rare corpse flower bloomed in Sydney, Australia, after more than a decade, with a similar bloom occurring simultaneously in New York, U.S. 

 

Corpse Flower 

 Corpse Flower (Amorphophallus titanum) – A Rare Botanical Phenomenon 

  • Scientific Classification: Belongs to the genus Amorphophallus, with notable species like Amorphophallus titanum and Amorphophallus gigas. It is among the world’s largest and rarest flowering plants. 
  •  Blooming Pattern: Flowers once every few years, with each bloom lasting only a day, making it a rare and highly anticipated event. 
  •  Recent Blooms: Witnessed simultaneous blooming at the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney, Australia and Brooklyn Botanic Garden in New York, U.S., after more than a decade, attracting thousands of visitors. 
  •  Foul Odor & Pollination  
    • Emits a rotting flesh-like smell to attract carrion insects (beetles, flies) for pollination, due to the presence of compounds like dimethyl trisulphide, isovaleric acid and indole. 
    • The strongest odor is emitted in the evening and night, aligning with the active period of pollinators like flies and beetles. 
  •  Physical Structure: Features large, fluted crimson petals with a central stalk (spadix) that grows over 3 meters, giving it a striking and massive appearance. 
  •  Scientific Importance: A remarkable example of plant adaptation for pollination, showcasing the unique reproductive strategies of rare plant species.