With our free press under threat and federal funding for public media gone, your support matters more than ever. Help keep the LAist newsroom strong, become a monthly member or increase your support today .
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Making a Stink Over the Huntington's Corpse Flower
A Corpse Flower that made a similar stink in NH in 2006 (Photo by Slabcity Gang via Flickr)
()
Something is clearly afoul over at the historic Huntington in San Marino. Nothing is wrong, actually. But all eyes--and noses--are on one rare bloom in particular: The Corpse Flower.It's technically called the Amorphophallus titanum. Blooming once with much fanfare in 1999, then again in 2002, the current one is a relative of the original, having been propagated from seed produced by its 1999 parent. These flowers can reach over 6 feet tall, and have a diameter of 3-4 feet when it blooms. "But the plant is perhaps most famous--or infamous--for its exceptionally foul odor. Hence the nickname, Corpse Flower," explains a Huntington press release. How stinky? Well, many liken the aroma to that of rotting flesh.
Right now the Corpse Flower is "growing at a rate of several inches a day," (it's now 5'4") and seems poised to bloom. If you can handle the stench, the Huntington expects it to open up between June 10th and 15th. It only lasts a couple of days, though, as once it "reaches full bloom the tall spadix collapses from its own weight and withers away."
Check with the Huntington to see if its ready for viewing...and smelling. You can see it on display at the Huntington's Rose Hills Foundation Conservatory for Botanical Science.
At LAist, we believe in journalism without censorship and the right of a free press to speak truth to those in power. Our hard-hitting watchdog reporting on local government, climate, and the ongoing housing and homelessness crisis is trustworthy, independent and freely accessible to everyone thanks to the support of readers like you.
But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
Chip in now to fund your local journalism
(
LAist
)
Trending on LAist
-
The study found recipients spent nearly all the money on basic needs like food and transportation, not drugs or alcohol. -
Kevin Lee's Tokyo Noir has become one of the top spots for craft-inspired cocktails. -
A tort claim obtained by LAist via a public records request alleges the Anaheim procurement department lacks basic contracting procedures and oversight. -
Flauta, taquito, tacos dorados? Whatever they’re called, they’re golden, crispy and delicious. -
If California redistricts, the conservative beach town that banned LGBTQ Pride flags on city property would get a gay, progressive Democrat in Congress. -
Most survivors of January's fires face a massive gap in the money they need to rebuild, and funding to help is moving too slowly or nonexistent.
Best of LAist