Yes, the movie “Dennis the Menace” (1993) features a scene where Mr. Wilson, the neighbor, is obsessed with a rare flower that he has been waiting for to bloom for nearly 40 years.
This fascinating flower is massive – towering at over 15 feet. Contrary to most flowers, the name comes from the horrific smell this bloom will emit when open. It has been compared to the scent of rotting flesh.
“While the scent may not be pleasurable, this flower existed before the pollinators we tend to consider today, like bumblebees. To ensure its own survival, the plant had to morph and attract other ancient pollinators, such as Carrion Beetles and Flesh Flies” said Kashena Hottinger, Indy Parks’ Interior Horticulturalist
Due to its sheer size and interesting aroma, it is anticipated this plant will draw quite a crowd! Together with Indy Parks, FOGP is excited to welcome new visitors to the Conservatory to see such a sight. It will take the corpse flower 5-10 years to bloom, but like most things in nature- reward will be found in the long-term, not the instant gratification.
“Gifting this unique plant to the staff at the Conservatory was an easy yes. The amount of educational programming will mimic that of the very popular Cacao tree, and we are thrilled to invest in plant-life, especially one where the general public can follow along on its growth journey.” – Jan Lesniak, Friends vice-president and gardener
Prior to this investment, the only other corpse flower in the state is located in Bloomington at the Indiana University Biology Building Greenhouse.
Gifts like this to Garfield Park are made possible in part from donations from you. Thank you for supporting the Friends of Garfield Park. Click here to make your gift.