**BREAKING: CORPSE FLOWER FRENZY HITS BROOKLYN AS MASSES FLOCK TO CATCH A WHIFF OF THE NOTORIOUS BLOOM**
In a spectacle that has left New Yorkers gagging and giggling in equal measure, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s rare corpse flower has finally bloomed, drawing in crowds of enthusiastic onlookers who braved hours-long lines and a noxious cloud of stench.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as “surreal” and “like something out of a bad horror movie” as thousands of people waited patiently (and not-so-patiently) to catch a glimpse of the infamous Amorphophallus titanum, a plant notorious for its powerful and pungent aroma.
“I’ve been waiting in line for three hours and I still can’t believe I smelled it,” said local resident, Karen Jenkins. “I mean, I’ve had some stinky subway rides in my time, but this was on a whole other level. I’m pretty sure I lost a few brain cells.”
The corpse flower, which blooms only once every 7-10 years, has become a sensation in the botany world for its unique ability to mimic the smell of rotting flesh. And judging by the reactions of those who braved the lines, it’s clear that this plant is living up to its reputation.
“I thought it smelled like a combination of rotten eggs, sweaty gym socks, and a hint of last night’s Chinese takeout,” said Brooklynite, David Lee. “But you know what? I loved every minute of it. It was like a rite of passage or something.”
Garden officials reported that the plant began to bloom at approximately 9am on Tuesday, triggering a stampede of curious onlookers who descended upon the garden like a swarm of locusts.
“We’re thrilled to see so much interest in our rare corpse flower,” said a spokesperson for the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. “But we do want to remind visitors to be respectful of the plant and to please, for the love of all things holy, don’t try to take a selfie with it. We don’t want anyone to get too close and, you know, pass out from the fumes.”
As the crowds continue to flock to the garden, officials are urging visitors to be prepared for a potentially hazardous experience.
“We’re providing complimentary nose plugs and oxygen tanks to anyone who needs them,” joked the spokesperson. “But seriously, folks, this plant is no joke. Please be careful and don’t say we didn’t warn you.”
In related news, local businesses are reporting a surge in sales of nose plugs, air fresheners, and hazmat suits.
