Stapelia Lepida | Orbea / Stapelia | Apocynaceae

Description of Stapelia lepida

Description of Stapelia lepida

Stapelia lepida, also known as Orbea lepida, is a perennial succulent that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly called the "carrion flower" due to its strong odor that attracts flies and other pollinators.

The plant has bi-color flowers that are about 2 inches in diameter. The ring is whitish with red flecks, and the corolla lobes are sulphur yellow with dark brown flecks and bands. The flowers have a starfish-like shape, which is why the plant is also called the "starfish flower."

Stapelia lepida is a low-growing, spineless, stem succulent that can grow up to 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide. The plant prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some drought but should be watered regularly during the growing season. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 9-11 and can tolerate some frost.

Stapelia lepida is a unique and fascinating plant that is sure to attract attention in any succulent collection. Its unusual flowers and strong odor make it a conversation starter, and its easy care requirements make it a great choice for beginners.

Characteristics of Stapelia lepida

Stapelia lepida, commonly known as the carrion flower, is a fleshy-stemmed, perennial succulent member of the Asclepiadaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is known for its unique and pungent odor that attracts flies for pollination.

The carrion flower has bi-color flowers with a whitish ring and red flecks, and sulphur yellow corolla lobes with dark brown flecks and bands. The flowers have a starfish-like appearance.

Stapelia lepida is a low-growing, spineless, stem succulent plant that can tolerate some frost. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade. The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings or seeds.

The carrion flower also has medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat snake bites, headaches, and stomach problems.

If you are looking for a visually stunning succulent with a fascinating history and purpose, then Stapelia lepida is the plant for you. Its unique appearance and pungent odor are sure to make it a conversation starter in any garden or collection.

Cultivation of Stapelia lepida

Stapelia Lepida, also known as Orbea Lepida, is a fleshy-stemmed, perennial succulent that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. This plant is commonly called the "carrion flower" due to its unique and pungent odor that attracts flies and other insects for pollination.

The plant itself is unassuming and could easily be overlooked in a garden, but its flowers are a sight to behold. The bi-color flowers have a whitish ring with red flecks, and the corolla lobes are sulphur yellow with dark brown flecks and bands. The flowers have a starfish-like appearance.

Stapelia Lepida is native to the mountains of Swaziland and can tolerate some frost. It is a low-growing, spineless, stem succulent plant that is predominantly found in South Africa.

Like other succulent plants, Stapelia Lepida requires well-draining soil and infrequent watering. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. This plant is relatively easy to care for and can be propagated through stem cuttings.

If you're looking for a unique and fascinating addition to your succulent collection, consider adding Stapelia Lepida. Its unusual appearance and carrion-like odor are sure to make it a conversation starter.

Propagation of Stapelia lepida

Stapelia lepida, also known as Orbea lepida, is a perennial succulent that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. This plant is commonly called the "carrion flower" because of its unique and pungent odor that attracts flies and other insects for pollination. It is native to South Africa and is a low-growing, spineless, stem succulent that can grow up to 15 cm in height.

The stem of Stapelia lepida is fleshy and green. The plant has bi-color flowers that are about 5 cm in diameter. The ring of the flower is whitish with red flecks, while the corolla lobes are sulphur yellow with dark brown flecks and bands. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall, and each bloom lasts for about a week.

Stapelia lepida is very similar to Orbea variegata, but the branches of the plant are more erect and have fewer flowers. The plant is easy to grow and care for, making it a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts. It requires well-draining soil and moderate watering, and it can tolerate some frost.

Stapelia lepida has earned its name as the "carrion flower." The flowers have a unique texture and color, making them a popular choice for succulent collectors. If you're looking for a low-maintenance plant that will add some interest to your garden, consider adding Stapelia lepida to your collection.