Stapelia gigantea
Carrion Flower
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Carrion Flower (Stapelia gigantea) - Description
Stapelia gigantea is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae, native to south eastern Africa. Growing to 20 cm (8 in) tall, it is a clump-forming succulent with erect green stems 3 cm (1 in) thick. In summer, large star-shaped 5-petalled flowers up to 35 cm (14 in) in diameter are borne. The flowers are red and yellow, wrinkled, with a silky texture and fringed with hairs.
Carrion Flower (Stapelia gigantea) - Blooming
Blooms diurnal, star-shaped, clustered or solitary flowers in summer.
Carrion Flower (Stapelia gigantea) - Growth
Perennial succulents, found in low hilly areas and rocky sites. Carrion flowers grow well in full sun with some midday shade and low humidity. In areas where temperatures drop below 52°F (11°C), raise Stapelia in a warm greenhouse. A warm greenhouse has a minimum temperature of 55°F (13°C). During the day, temperatures should be set to 55-64°F (13-18°C) or above, and at night, the temperature should be at 55°F (13°C). In warm, dry areas, carrion flowers work well in a raised bed or desert garden.
Carrion Flower (Stapelia gigantea) - Planting
Propagate from the seed in spring. Sow seeds at 64-70°F (18-21°C). Between spring and summer, propagate from stem or root cuttings.
Carrion Flower (Stapelia gigantea) - Pest
Stapelia is prone to mealybugs, bacterial stem rots, and fungal stem rots.
Carrion Flower (Stapelia gigantea) - Interesting facts
The common name for the genus Stapelia is Carrion Flower. Carrion Flowers are so named because their flowers produce a smell that resembles rotting meat. The flowers also resemble some type of decaying meat. This is all meant to attract carrion flies. The plants of Stapelia trick the carrion flies into pollinating the flowers because they smell and look similar to rotting meat.
Carrion Flower (Stapelia gigantea) - Soil and irrigation
Carrion flowers do best in soil that is moderately fertile, gritty, and sharply drained. Soil based potting mixes, with added grit, work well for indoor plants. Water moderately during the growing season, less in winter.
