Huernia zebrina — Lifesaver Plant

Description

Huernia zebrina, often called the Lifesaver Plant, is a small succulent with thick green stems and bold star-shaped flowers. Each bloom has cream and maroon stripes around a raised red ring. The flower looks almost like a tiny candy lifesaver.

This plant stays low and forms a neat clump. It is a fun choice for a bright windowsill, small pot, or mixed succulent display.

Light and Water

Give the Lifesaver Plant bright light. A little morning sun is fine. Strong afternoon sun may mark the stems.

Water well, then let the soil dry before you water again. Wet soil can cause rot. A pot with a drain hole is best. If you enjoy odd flowering succulents, see our Stapelia gigantea Carrion Flower.

Soil and Care

Use a loose cactus or succulent mix. Extra pumice or perlite can help water drain fast. Feed lightly in spring and summer. Do not feed much in winter.

Warm rooms suit this plant well. Keep it away from frost. It can spend summer outdoors in a bright, sheltered spot, then come inside before cold nights. For another rare stapeliad, explore Edithcolea grandis Persian Carpet Flower.

Blooms and Growth

Blooms often appear in warm weather when the plant gets enough light. The flowers may have a mild scent that helps attract flies in nature.

The stems spread slowly and can be divided or rooted from cuttings. Let cut pieces dry for a few days before placing them in dry mix. If you want a different sculptural plant for a bright indoor spot, try the Ric-Rac Fishbone Cactus.

• Botanical name: Huernia zebrina
• Common name: Lifesaver Plant
• Light: Bright light with gentle sun
• Water: Let soil dry between waterings
• Soil: Fast-draining succulent mix
• Habit: Low, clumping succulent
• Cold tolerance: Protect from frost