The titan arum, known as "Putricia," brings a unique online community together as they eagerly anticipate the plant's rare bloom.
**Putricia's Bloom: A Stinky Sensation Captivates Australia**
**Putricia's Bloom: A Stinky Sensation Captivates Australia**
Thousands tune in live to witness the rare and odorous flower opening in Sydney.
In an extraordinary event drawing attention from around the globe, thousands of virtual spectators are eagerly awaiting the bloom of a notorious and rare plant known as the "corpse flower," affectionately nicknamed Putricia. Located in Sydney's beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, this endangered titan arum is infamous for its repulsive odor, reminiscent of “wet socks, hot cat food, or rotting possum flesh,” which it will release for just 24 hours when it finally flowers.
The buzz surrounding Putricia has been amplified through a lively livestream chat, where viewers have coined the phrase “WWTF,” or “We Watch the Flower,” as they share a collective experience of anticipation. The plant, currently draped behind a brown curtain and positioned behind a red velvet rope, stands tall and silent as viewers await the moment it blooms. Interactions on the chat have become a source of humor and camaraderie, with comments like, "This is the slowest burlesque ever," signaling the long wait ahead.
While predictions for Putricia's bloom remain uncertain, the audience can't help but check in constantly, sharing their thoughts and showing support with alternative acronyms such as “WDNRP” (We Do Not Rush Putricia) and “BBTB” (Blessed Be The Bloom).
Putricia hails from the rainforests of Sumatra, Indonesia, where it is known as bunga bangkai, translating to “corpse flower” in Indonesian. The titan arum, scientifically referred to as Amorphophallus titanum, can reach towering heights of up to 3 meters (10 feet) and weigh over 150 kilograms (330 lbs). Unfortunately, this magnificent plant is increasingly endangered due to habitat destruction.
In Sydney, Putricia is among a small group of titan arums, the last of which bloomed 15 years ago. However, Australia has recently seen other corpse blooms in cities like Melbourne and Adelaide, each creation drawing a wave of visitors eager for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Similar titan arums are housed outside of Australia, including in Kew Gardens, London, where one recently bloomed in June. The titan arum first bloomed outside its native habitat in 1889, making it a historical icon as well as a biological wonder. As viewers brace for Putricia's imminent bloom, the excitement continues to grow around this natural phenomenon.
