I originally posted this in the "in the news" section (so there are some comments there, as well), but somebody helpfully suggested that it be added here. The rare tropical plant titan arum -- also known as the "corpse flower" due to its odor -- is producing its first flower following six and a half years of vegetative growth at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois. It is expected to be in full bloom around June 21, 2008. The titan arum (Amorphophallus titanum), which produces the largest unbranched inflorescence in the world, is on the World Conservation Union’s Red List of Threatened Species. The public is invited to view and photograph the flowering plant. Click here for location and updates, including photos: http://www.eiu.edu/~biology/news/titan_arum.htm.
Excellent display of the parts of Amorphophallus titanum on this page. An excellent learning tool for anyone
