I think it's a rule that buds of any plant, especially the first bud on a new plant, take forever to open. The flower of this one is sorta weird, but I think stunning. Looks like there is a light on deep inside. Don't think the 'aroma' is particularly unpleasant either, tho' I can't remember! which probably means it isn't now I think about it. Bet I'd remember if it was as bad as some.

It finally bloomed! It was smelly for only one day, the scent of a dead cat or some other small mammal.

Here is a link that might be useful: {{gwi:387104}}

My first opened today, and we were standing above it talking about it, and I took a deep breath and didn't smell anything. I DIDN'T get down on my hands and knees and stick my nose in it! Mine is more spotted than yours; wish I could post a picture! (Clearly the same thing--I wouldn't want you to think I was doubting your identification!) Not sure how many will bloom this year; guess I have a dozen or two sprinkled around here and there. The bulbs drop, and I try to gather them up to give them away, but always miss quite a few. I'm not at all sad about that! The little ones seem to come up first and the ones that bloom come almost last.

Be careful that it doesn't escape captivity in Hawaii. It could easily become invasive.

I'm curious--there's been quite a debate on the aroid-l about good and bad smelling bulbifers. Unfortunately for my curiousity it came up after mine were finished blooming, but while I don't know if mine actually smells more-or-less good I know that it doesn't smell bad enough to notice from two or three feet away. Anybody else?