Putrella is the Muttart’s Corpse Flower, also known as an Amorphophallus titanum. It is one of the largest flowering organisms in the world. They are native to Sumatra, Indonesia and can grow up to 10 feet in height. When a Corpse Flower blooms, it emits a putrid odor that smells like rotting flesh, designed to trick Carrion Beetles to come to it, which in turn pollinate the flower.
Learn more about this rare, ever changing plant at the Muttart Conservatory!
Please note: Putrella bloomed in April 28, 2017. Check out the time lapse video of her most recent bloom, or see photos and video of Putrella's past blooms. It can take anywhere from 2-10 years before another bloom occurs. To find out when Putrella is getting ready to bloom again, follow us on Facebook.
How long will it flower for?
The bloom only lasts for about 36 hours, and then it can take anywhere from 2-10 years before another bloom occurs. We give Putrella a lot of care and attention which is why she has bloomed more often at the Muttart.
How tall will it grow?
That is up to the plant to decide. There is no absolute height minimum or maximum that we can quote. The Amorphophallus titanum uses a huge amount of energy to reach a height and width that make it the world's tallest flower, averaging 6-7 inches of growth per day.
At Putrella’s tallest, it grew to almost 8 feet. The current world record amorphophallus measured 3.1 m (10 ft 2.25 in) tall in June 2010.
Will the Muttart be open longer for Putrella?
As it stands, our hours will remain the same as usual, but when the Putrella blooms, we will extend our hours until 11pm the first day and reopen the next day at 7am to accommodate as many visitors as possible.
Who can see Putrella?
Everyone is welcome to visit the Muttart Conservatory to see (and smell!) Putrella. Regular admission rates will apply. However, given this event is very popular, visitors may be required to wait line. In 2015, the Muttart welcomed over 5,700 guests for its bloom, and considering our capacity is only 500 people, some visitors were required to wait outside. So remember to dress for the weather!