The Corpse Flower Spectacle at the Conservatory of Flowers
Did you know the Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park showcased a beloved giant corpse flower named Scarlet last week? I was in the room on July 3rd when she began to open. The corpse flower is the largest unbranched inflorescence in the world. It’s Latin name is Amorphophallus titanum which translates to large misshapen phallus. I gotta say, the name really fit. As a result of this momentous occasion, a large group of people had gathered around staring intently up at her. Suddenly, the ruffled green petals opened ever so slightly and the smallest bit of red could be seen. “It’s Blooming!” A nearby volunteer announced with a huge smile. He went on to describe all of her attributes and I felt like I had just witnessed a dramatic birth scene in a Hollywood movie.
The Corpse Flower inside The Conservatory of Flowers – All photography by Vita Hewitt
We cheered and watched as she began to open in increments. Sadly, they asked us to leave at closing so that the line already gathered outside to could get a chance to see her. I left with Scarlet’s carrion scented mating call in my nose. The Corpse Flower is especially exciting because it only blooms for 48 hours once every 3-7 years. If you did not get a chance to see it don’t worry, there are still many good reason to visit The Conservatory of Flowers.
Beautiful pond inside The Conservatory of Flowers – All photography by Vita Hewitt
The Conservatory is a Victorian Greenhouse. The construction of it was completed in 1879 making it the oldest structure in Golden Gate Park. The gently sloping laws in front of the domed white structure are a great place to have a picnic. Strategically planted flowers emphasize the gorgeous white of the building.
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Beautiful flowers inside The Conservatory of Flowers – All photography by Vita Hewitt
Escape from the fog and into a plant fairyland. Five curated rooms of rare and exotic plants from around the world make up the space. Right now, the giant water lilies are worth a look in the Aquatic Room. In the Highland and Lowland tropics rooms there are blooms bigger than my head and brightly colored flowers smaller than my pinkie nail.
All photography by Vita Hewitt
Carnivorous Pitcher Plants dangle from artfully placed vines. Vibrant orchids vie with stunning hibiscus for your attention. If you are needing to step away for a minute The Conservatory of Flowers gifts you a small yet gorgeous afternoon vacation. A light show about photosynthesis happens every evening in summer just after sunset. It lasts about 30 minutes and is free to the public. The Conservatory is open Thursday thru Tuesday in the summer from 10:00 AM until 4:30 PM
To learn more: https://conservatoryofflowers.org
Conservatory of Flowers – All photography by Vita Hewitt
Conservatory of Flowers Pond – All photography by Vita Hewitt
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