Putrescine is a colorless, organic compound that belongs to a class of chemicals known as polyamines. It is produced naturally in living organisms and is involved in various biological processes, including cell growth and differentiation. Putrescine is formed from the amino acid ornithine through a process called decarboxylation. This compound is often associated with the smell of decaying matter, as it is produced during the breakdown of amino acids in dead organisms. While it has a foul odor, putrescine also plays a role in plant growth and development, making it important in both biochemistry and agriculture.