Corpse flower starts north Qld bloom

Australia's largest rotten-smelling flower has begun its bloom in far north Queensland.

Once fully open the Titan Arum - more commonly known as a corpse flower - will emit its rancid stench for 24 hours to attract pollinating insects.

Cairns Botanic Gardens curator David Warmington says the 2.82 metre-tall plant will also display a spectacular dark purple "skirt" which will start to wilt along with the rest of the flower a day after its bloom.