Titan Arum

The titan arum (*Amorphophallus titanum*) is a flowering plant in the arum family, known for its huge unbranched inflorescence and strong smell of rotting flesh when in bloom.

The titan arum (*Amorphophallus titanum*) is a flowering plant in the arum family known for its huge unbranched inflorescence and a strong smell of rotting flesh when in bloom. It is native to rainforests on Sumatra, Indonesia, and is sometimes called the corpse flower or corpse plant. The species is cultivated in botanical gardens worldwide, including Canadian institutions, where blooming events draw public interest and provide educational opportunities about tropical plant conservation.

Description

The titan arum produces a huge unbranched inflorescence rather than a single flower. It also grows a very large leaf and a large underground tuber or corm that stores energy for future growth. The plant has one of the largest unbranched inflorescences in the plant kingdom.

Distribution and habitat

The species is endemic to the rainforests of Sumatra, where it grows in warm, humid tropical conditions. Sources describe it as occurring in central or western Sumatra, often in forest openings or shaded rainforest habitats.

Blooming and pollination

Titan arum blooms are rare, brief, and strongly scented. The odour mimics decaying flesh and attracts carrion beetles and flies that help pollinate the plant. When it blooms, it emits a strong odour resembling rotting flesh, which attracts pollinators.

Conservation and cultivation

The species is considered endangered in the wild, mainly because of habitat loss and land degradation, and it is also threatened by collecting in some areas. It is grown in botanical gardens around the world, where flowering events are often public attractions. In Canada, titan arum is grown and displayed in botanical gardens and greenhouse collections, and blooming events can attract public interest and education about tropical plant conservation.