Stapelia grandiflora is a species of flowering plant in the genus Stapelia of the family Apocynaceae. It is commonly referred to as the carrion plant, starfish flower, giant toad plant, or starfish cactus, although it is not related to cacti at all. This "carrion plant" nickname can also refer to similar Stapelia species as well as members of related genera, including Stapelia gigantea and Orbea variegata. Stapelia grandiflora sometimes also goes by the name of Stapelia flavirostris. The plant is native to South Africa, including the Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, and Free State.
The carrion plant has moderate disease resistance but is more sensitive to humidity and overwatering. It becomes more susceptible to disease when it lacks light and is overwatered. In terms of care, the carrion plant is drought-tolerant and can withstand long periods without watering. It requires little fertilizer and only occasional pruning. These characteristics make it suitable for people at any experience level, especially those who prefer to spend less time on plant care or who may be away from home for extended periods. It is a good option for individuals who do not want to invest a lot of time in maintenance yet still want an easy-to-care-for plant.
How to keep Stapelia Grandiflora.
Light
The carrion plant does best in locations fully exposed to sunlight, though it can also tolerate areas receiving only partial sun. Conditions resembling its native habitat support healthy growth. Adequate light increases its vigor, while too much or too little light can impede it.
Humidity
This plant prefers dry conditions, so don't mist it. However, watering it less often can also thrive in higher humidity.
Temperature
Carrion plant originates from habitats with temperatures ranging from 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). It does best in warm conditions. Seasonal temperature changes aren't necessary, but avoid exposing it to temperatures below its preferred range.
Fertilizer
For the Carrion plant, light applications of fertilizer one to two times a year during the growing season are sufficient. Do not fertilize in winter or summer when the plant is dormant. Cut back on fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before applying fertilizer. Fertilizing helps support healthy growth and encourages blooms.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Vine, Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Stapelia
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 15 cm to 30 cm
- Mature Spread
- 49 cm
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Purple
- Flower Size
- 5.08 cm to 7.62 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Fall
- Native Area
- South Africa, Lesotho
Other names.
