Family Orbea / Stapelia Stapelia grandiflora

Stapelia Grandiflora | Orbea / Stapelia | Apocynaceae

Learn all about Stapelia grandiflora, a unique and fascinating succulent plant in the genus Stapelia of the family Apocynaceae. Also known as the carrion plant, it emits a strong odor that attracts flies for pollination. Native to South Africa, this clump-forming succulent has 4-angled, finely hairy, erect or decumbent stems that can grow up to 20 cm tall and 3 cm thick. It produces large and showy starfish-shaped flowers that can grow up to 14 inches in diameter. Discover how to care for this low-maintenance plant, including tips on watering, soil, and propagation. Add Stapelia grandiflora to your succulent collection for a unique and fascinating addition.
Stapelia Grandiflora | Orbea / Stapelia | Apocynaceae

Stapelia grandiflora: The Carrion Plant

Stapelia grandiflora, also known as the carrion plant, is a succulent native to South Africa. It belongs to the genus Stapelia in the family Apocynaceae. The plant gets its name from the unique and pungent odor it emits, which attracts flies for pollination.

This clump-forming succulent has 4-angled, finely hairy, erect or decumbent stems that can grow up to 30 cm long. It forms a large compact clump that can reach up to 60 cm in diameter. The stems are green and can grow up to 3 cm thick. The plant produces large starfish-shaped flowers that can grow up to 14 inches in diameter. The flowers have a yellow color with crimson stripes and emit a strong carrion odor.

Caring for Stapelia grandiflora is relatively easy. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate partial shade to full sun. It is drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings, which should be allowed to dry out for a few days before planting in well-draining soil.

Stapelia grandiflora is a unique and low-maintenance succulent that is sure to turn heads. Its distinctive appearance and interesting pollination strategy make it a great addition to any succulent collection. If you're looking for a conversation starter, consider adding the carrion plant to your collection.

Appearance and Care of Stapelia grandiflora

Stapelia grandiflora, commonly known as the carrion plant, is a succulent native to South Africa. It belongs to the genus Stapelia in the family Apocynaceae. This clump-forming succulent has 4-angled, finely hairy, erect or decumbent stems that can grow up to 20 cm tall and 3 cm thick.

The carrion plant produces large star-shaped flowers that can reach up to 14 inches in diameter. The flowers are yellow with crimson stripes and emit a strong odor that resembles rotting flesh. This unique odor attracts flies and other insects for pollination. The carrion plant blooms in the summer and fall.

Caring for Stapelia grandiflora is relatively easy. It prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight. Watering should be done sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. The carrion plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.

In addition to its unique appearance and odor, the carrion plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. However, it is important to note that the plant can be toxic if ingested, so it should be kept away from children and pets.

If you're looking for a unique and low-maintenance succulent, the carrion plant is an excellent choice. Its large, showy flowers and distinctive odor make it a conversation piece in any collection.

Propagation of Stapelia grandiflora

Stapelia grandiflora, also known as the carrion plant, is a succulent native to South Africa. It belongs to the genus Stapelia in the family Apocynaceae. The plant is named for its unique and pungent odor, which resembles rotting flesh and attracts flies for pollination.

This clump-forming succulent has 4-angled, finely hairy, erect or decumbent stems that form a large compact clump. It can grow up to 20 cm tall and 3 cm thick. The plant produces large star-shaped flowers that can reach up to 14 inches in diameter. The flowers are yellow with crimson stripes and have enormous carrion blossoms.

Stapelia grandiflora prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-11. When caring for this plant, it is important to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Watering should be done sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. The plant should also be protected from frost and provided with adequate air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

If you're looking for a unique and fascinating addition to your succulent collection, Stapelia grandiflora is definitely worth considering. Its large and showy flowers, coupled with its interesting pollination strategy, make it a conversation starter and a standout in any garden or indoor space.

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Can Stapelia take full sun?

Stapelia grandiflora, commonly known as the starfish flower, is a succulent plant that can tolerate full sun, but it is not recommended to expose it to full sun for extended periods. In its natural habitat, this plant grows under the shade of rocks or other plants, so it prefers bright, indirect sunlight. If you live in a hot and dry climate, it is best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent sunburn. In general, it is best to acclimate your Stapelia gradually to full sun exposure. Start by placing it in a spot with morning sun and gradually increase the amount of sun exposure over several weeks. This will help prevent sunburn and allow the plant to adjust to the new conditions. Overall, while Stapelia can take full sun, it is best to provide some shade and gradually acclimate it to prevent damage.

Do starfish cactus blooms stink?

Yes, starfish cactus blooms, also known as Stapelia grandiflora, do have a strong odor that is often described as smelling like rotting flesh. This is because the plant is pollinated by flies and other insects that are attracted to the scent. While the smell may be unpleasant to humans, it is necessary for the plant's survival. The odor is strongest in the evening and early morning when the flowers are open. It is important to note that not all species of Stapelia have a strong odor, and some may even have a pleasant scent. As a succulent expert, it is important to understand the unique characteristics of each plant, including their blooming habits and any associated odors. When writing for SucculentHelp, it is important to provide accurate and detailed information about each plant, including any unique features or characteristics that may be of interest to readers.

Is Stapelia gigantea a cactus?

Stapelia gigantea is not a cactus, but rather a member of the milkweed family. It is commonly known as carrion flower due to its unique and pungent odor that attracts flies for pollination. Like other succulents, Stapelia gigantea has adapted to survive in arid environments by storing water in its thick stems and leaves. While it may not be a cactus, it is still a fascinating and beautiful plant that can be a great addition to any succulent collection. As for SucculentHelp, it is a valuable resource for succulent enthusiasts to learn more about caring for and identifying different types of succulents, including Stapelia grandiflora and Stapelia gigantea.
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