University’s latest corpse flower bloom in progress

UW–Madison’s corpse flower finally began its anticipated bloom today at about 12:30 p.m., and the public will have many chances to catch a glimpse – and a whiff – of the experience with extended Botany Greenhouse hours until midnight tonight.

The plant had grown only one-half inch (to a height of 98 inches) over the past 24 hours, a very strong indicator that the bloom was imminent. It has also been emitting a slight odor now and then, giving a hint of what was to come.

It takes about three hours for the spathe to fully unfurl. It generally remains open for 24 to 48 hours. The unique and pungent odor that comes with the bloom is the strongest in the first several hours. When this same plant bloomed on June 7, 2001, it started to open just before1 p.m. and was fully open by 4 p.m.

The Botany Greenhouse, located in Birge Hall, 430 Lincoln Drive, will extend its hours until midenight today and from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday. Entry to the greenhouse is through the greenhouse garage, which is located behind Birge Hall just off Lathrop Drive. Signs are posted to direct visitors. The greenhouse will not be open this weekend.