Until 1957, the gardens were the private estate of Ruth Baird Larabee, at which time she donated her house and grounds to the County of San Diego.

Herbs, water plants, wildflowers, perennials, brugmansias, cork oaks, and palms are also featured.

[1] The plant stands at around four feet tall, and in order to see it, guests must reserve a viewing time in advance, as it is only in bloom for a few days.

One identifying feature of a corpse flower is its strong smell, which has been compared to rotting flesh.

The flowers are classified as endangered, and botanic gardens around the United States are working to preserve them.