The corpse flower’s scientific name translates to “giant, misshapen phallus,” and there’s no wonder why. Its central column, the spadix, can reach more than 6 feet and is surrounded by a scarlet skirt of petals known as the spathe. When the spathe finally unfurls, the chartreuse spadix heats up to about 90 degrees and releases a rancid blend of chemicals.

Source: Los Angeles Times August 01, 2018 20:03 UTC