CSU’s Rare Flower in Bloom and Open for Viewing

Saturday night, May 25th, the 7-year-old corpse flower at Colorado State University (CSU) decided it was time to bloom. By the eight o’clock hour the next morning, long lines had already already started. Hundreds of people came and are coming to see the magnificent CSU corpse flower. A long line wrapped around the streets of the College of Agricultural Sciences Conservatory.

CSU Corpse Flower in Bloom. May 26, 2024.Photo bycolorado Martini

I was included as one of those individuals waiting in line. We showed up at 8:40 a.m. to find the line to already be long. The doors to the Conservatory were opened at 9:00 a.m. After we arrived, several others began to join, and the line started wrapped around the block as far as the eyes to see.

Once they opened the doors to the conservatory, the line started to move in chucks. While in line, we were able to view the live feed on YouTube to see what to expect. It was obvious they were allowing groups a chance to take pictures and selfies with the large flower.

Close up of CSU Corpse Flower. May 26, 2024Photo byColorado Martini

On Saturday night, I viewed the live feed to check if it was beginning to bloom. Around 9:00 p.m. I could see it was opening. I noticed that they were several students in the building keeping an eye on the flower. It was fun to see them bend over toward the flower and see if it's stunk like a rotting flesh. Hence, the name corspe flower.

This is the first time the CSU corpse flower has bloomed. They had to wait 7 years to see the first bloom. Once the new bloom wilts they will not see another bloom for 5 years. What an exciting time for these students.

Have you ever since a corspe flower? Let us know in the comments.

One segment of a very long line wrapping around the block.Photo byColorado Martini

How to see the corpse flower

You only have today and tomorrow to see this rare large flower bloom. The blooms only last for 24 to 48 hours. The viewing is free to the public and family friendly. But expect long lines and no shade. Bring sunscreen, umbrellas, snacks, and water. You will be standing for over an hour or more in the sun.

The facility will be open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day that the bloom occurs. Check the live feed to see if it is still in bloom. Most likely open to the public Sunday, May 26, and Monday, May 27 only.

Flower Location: The Plant Growth Facility Conservatory at 1241 Libbie Coy Way, Fort Collins, CO, 80523.

Parking: Corpse flower visitors should park in the South College Avenue Garage, 121 W. Pitkin St., Fort Collins, CO, 80523. The University Station for the MAX line is within walking distance of the PGF. To reach the PGF entrance from the parking garage, walk west on Pitkin, and follow the signs for the corpse flower viewing line. Only the west doors provide access to the viewing area.

Would you ever consider going to see the flower? Let us know in the comments.

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