Brooklyn Urban Oasis
Brooklyn Botanic Garden: From Stinky Blooms to Ancient Bonsai
Brooklyn, New York, United States
This urban sanctuary offers a jarring contrast between the delicate beauty of cherry blossoms and the rare, putrid stench of the Titan Arum, one of the world's largest and smelliest flowers.
While wandering the lush paths of this Brooklyn institution, a sudden, foul odor might interrupt the floral perfume. It isn't a nearby dumpster or a farm; it is likely the Titan Arum, a botanical giant famous for smelling like decaying flesh when it finally decides to bloom.
This rare event, which occurred here as recently as 2006, draws crowds eager to witness one of nature's most pungent spectacles.
Why It Stands Out
Beyond the infamous "corpse flower," the grounds host one of the most significant Japanese-style gardens in the country, featuring a peaceful lake and a striking red gate. In spring, this area becomes a focal point for cherry blossom viewing.
Literature lovers can explore the Shakespeare Garden, where the beds are filled with species specifically referenced in the Bard's plays. For those who prefer thorns to petals, the Desert Pavilion showcases rare succulents like lithops and the prickly Euphorbia milii.
The garden's living history is best represented by its bonsai collection, which includes specimens that have been tended for centuries. One particular tree, gathered from a Japanese mountainside a hundred years ago, is now three centuries old.
The scale of the collection is matched by the Rose Garden, which is designed to showcase over 1,000 different varieties, and the terrace pools that feature 100 types of aquatic plants, including vibrant waterlilies.
Before You Go
Plan your visit according to the season to see specific highlights like Daffodil Hill or the formal Osborne Garden. While the Titan Arum blooms are rare, the Rock Garden and Herb Garden offer year-round interest.
The bonsai collection is housed in a dedicated space where you can view the ancient trees up close. Be sure to check the terrace pools if you are interested in aquatic flora.
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