'The Beast' awakens: Rare corpse flower set to stink up Grand Valley's campus again
Grand Valley State University’s resident corpse flower is preparing to bloom once again, bringing its infamous rotting-flesh stench and massive tropical structure back to the Barbara Kindschi Greenhouse.
ALLENDALE — Grand Valley State University’s resident corpse flower is preparing to bloom once again, bringing its infamous rotting-flesh stench and massive tropical structure back to the Barbara Kindschi Greenhouse.
The impending display marks an unusually rapid cycle for the Amorphophallus titanum, affectionately nicknamed "The Beast." Native to Sumatra, the species typically requires seven to 10 years between blooms. However, after making its debut in 2022 and blooming again in 2024, this third occurrence suggests a surprising new trend.
"Assuming now this is an established pattern," said greenhouse supervisor Christina Hipshier, reflecting on the plant's surprisingly prolific schedule.
Despite its dramatic reputation and demanding native environment, the plant thrives under standard tropical greenhouse conditions — roughly 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 70 percent humidity.
Hipshier noted that beyond careful moisture control during dormancy, the botanical giant requires surprisingly minimal maintenance.
The corpse flower relies on its pungent odor to attract pollinators like flies in the wild. Once the bloom reaches its peak, the intense scent and open structure usually endure for only 24 to 36 hours before beginning to collapse.
GVSU is opening the Kindschi Hall of Science greenhouse to the public starting Monday, Oct. 12.
Visitor information, greenhouse hours
- Standard public hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. beginning Oct. 12.
- Peak bloom hours: Once peak bloom becomes imminent, visiting hours will extend from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Real-time updates: Expanded peak hours will be announced via Instagram on @gvsu and @barbarakindschigreenhousegvsu.
- Parking details: Visitors can obtain a free one-day parking permit at the GVSU Parking Services office near the Lake Michigan Drive entrance, or use designated pay-to-park lots on campus.
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