SYDNEY (AP) — The rare unfolding of a notorious plant recognized for emitting the scent of decaying flesh has captured the attention of thousands in Sydney, where devoted fans lined up for hours to witness a unique bloom and endure the unforgettable smell reminiscent of gym socks and rotting garbage.

Known scientifically as amorphophallus titanum, or bunga bangkai in Indonesia, this captivating plant, affectionately named Putricia by her fans, has transformed the Royal Sydney Botanic Garden into an attraction akin to a concert. Fans, referring to themselves as Putricians, have steadily flocked to the garden, with reports indicating that over 20,000 admirers have visited in mere days, eager to behold a bloom that hasn't occurred in 15 years. The corpse flower typically blossoms only every 7 to 10 years in the wild.

“The fact that they flower so infrequently puts them at a distinct disadvantage in their natural habitat,” explained garden spokesperson Sophie Daniel, who designed a theatrical display for Putricia featuring a prominent purple curtain and periodic misting. “They must rely on nearby blooms as they cannot self-pollinate.” Currently, estimates suggest there are only 300 of these plants left in the wild, making each bloom even more significant.

Putricia's fame has surged since staff first observed her flower sprouting in December when the plant was just 25 centimeters tall. Now, she stands 1.6 meters tall, with the flower spike unfurling dramatically around a central tuber, showcasing a deep burgundy center surrounded by a yellow-green exterior.

As anticipation mounted, the garden prepared carefully for the influx of visitors, complete with barriers reminiscent of a rock concert ambiance. The carefully orchestrated atmosphere included red carpets and velvet ropes allowing for close encounters—though many ventured near with noses pinched and stomachs churning from the overwhelming aroma. Social media captured moments of visitors gazing in awe, with some bowing in reverence, while others canceled dinner plans due to the overpowering scent.

Putricia's journey has extended well beyond physical attendees, evolving into a global online phenomenon. A 24/7 live stream established by the garden has garnered close to a million views in less than a week, spawning a plethora of memes and inside jokes among her digital followers. Acronyms like WWTF (“We Watch the Flower”) and WDNRP (“We Do Not Rush Putricia”) have taken root in the plant's dedicated fan community.

As the moment draws near for Putricia’s bloom, which will last only another day, staff are poised to hand-pollinate in a bid to enhance the species' survival odds. The intense heat that the plant generates to disperse its scent attracts various insects, assisting in the pollination process.

While early discussions suggested the provision of vomit bags for visitors, the garden administration ultimately shared a light-hearted conclusion: analysts reported no one has experienced any ill effects from indulging in the plant’s overwhelming scent. “I haven’t heard of anyone actually being harmed,” Daniel noted with a chuckle. “Putricia is an amazing living being.”

To explore more about Putricia and her curious fame, feel free to visit AP News, South China Morning Post, and HuffPost.