Stapelia gigantea — Carrion Flower

Description

Stapelia gigantea, commonly called Carrion Flower, is an unusual succulent with thick angular stems and enormous star-shaped blooms. The yellow flowers are marked with maroon lines and fine hairs and can produce a carrion-like scent that attracts pollinating flies.

Light

Provide bright light with some gentle direct sun. Increase sun exposure gradually to avoid scorching stems that have been grown in lower light.

Water and Soil

Use a very fast-draining succulent mix and water thoroughly only after much of the root zone has dried. Keep the plant substantially drier during cool, low-light periods because excess moisture is the main cause of stem and root rot.

Flowers and Fragrance

Mature plants may produce exceptionally large flowers during warm, bright growing conditions. The odor is part of the plant’s pollination strategy and is strongest around freshly opened blooms.

Related Succulents

For another unusual stapeliad, see the Huernia zebrina Lifesaver Plant. Collectors of compact dry-growing plants may also like Aloinopsis schooneesii Living Stone and Sempervivum ‘Reinhardt’.

Cold Protection

Protect Stapelia from frost and cold, wet conditions. In cooler climates, grow it in a container that can be moved to a bright protected location for winter.