Rare Corpse Flower Reaches Its Peak Bloom in Rotterdam Zoo

The titan arum, also known as the corpse flower for its distinctive odor of rotting flesh, is currently in full bloom at Diergaarde Blijdorp in Rotterdam. Visitors have just two to three days to see it at its peak.

This Sumatran plant is among the most unusual in the world, blooming only once every five to ten years. Between blooms, it remains hidden from public view, cared for behind the scenes by the zoo's botanical staff. It last flowered at Blijdorp in 1963 and again in 2023. It is now on display in the Victoria greenhouse.

In the wild, the titan arum grows exclusively on the Indonesian island of West Sumatra. The species is threatened by deforestation, the expansion of oil palm plantations, and trade in rare plants. Those who wish to experience this rare botanical event should visit soon.