Stapelia Assort 4"

Stapelia
Starfish Flower / Carrion Flower

A succulent that saves the drama for bloom time. Soft, spineless, finger-like stems stack into a clump that looks quiet on the bench—then it opens a big, starfish-shaped flower, often mottled maroon and cream. Fair warning: the bloom is scented for flies, not for the dining room. Fascinating, not fragrant.

Treat it like a succulent. Bright light to full sun. Fast-draining mix. Water thoroughly, then let it go dry. Winter rest means even less water. The flowers are the show; the plant is the easy part.

Light: Bright light to sun.
Water: Soak and dry. Almost dry in winter.
Soil: Cactus/succulent mix.
Bloom: Large starfish flowers. Strong odor—display with airflow, not on a kitchen table.
Pet note: Keep sap and flowers away from chewers.

The conversation succulent—easy stems most of the year, then a flower nobody forgets.