How to grow Stapelia

Stapelias are subjects of interest rather than beauty and are frequently grown by collectors of succulents. Some large-flowered species make a good show when grown in masses in the garden. In general they are drought-resistant succulents suited for rockeries and the small-flowered species are suitable as container plants. They are excellent subjects for a water-wise garden. The sterile stems are very attractive when planted in full sunlight. When in full flower, pollinators are attracted by the odour. For the eco-friendly gardener this is a way of attracting food for birds and reptiles such as lizards to the garden.

Carrion flowers grow very easily in all parts of South Africa. They like a sunny position and will also grow in light, semishade in hot climates. The soil should have good drainage and a pH of 6.5-7.5. Most species do best in a well-drained, sandy medium consisting of equal parts of washed river sand, potting soil and topsoil.

Provided that they are not over-watered and are given a warm position, stapelias will flower successfully. Plants from the wetter regions should be watered more often than those originating from the drier regions. Rather water plants sparingly than excessively. The plants require a period without water in summer or winter (a dormant phase), depending on whether they come from the summer or winter rainfall area. They can survive long periods without water, but be sure to water them before they shrink too much and will not be able to recover. In nature they are mostly sheltered from the sun by the shade of thickets and shrubs or their roots escape high temperatures by growing below rocks and slabs, only exposing the stems.

Cuttings should be taken during the active growing stage to ensure good rooting, before the plants enter their dormant phase. Cuttings can flower in their first year, depending on the size of the cutting. Stapelias grow easily from cuttings as long as they are given adequate time to dry out before planting (at least two weeks). Leave the cuttings in the shade to dry out. Use a fungicide drench before planting. Place them in a well-ventilated area with about 40% shade. Water daily during very hot weather. Plants that do not grow well from cuttings can also be propagated by grafting.

Stapelias are easily propagated by stem cuttings or seed. Seeds take about a year to ripen, but germinate rapidly after sowing. Fresh seeds usually germinate better. Sow seed in spring in a well-drained, light, sandy soil mixed with compost and cover with a thin layer of soil. Keep the temperature at 25-35°C, in a shaded and fairly moist position. Keep plants well ventilated and in good light to prevent damping off. Treat the seedling medium with a fungicide, but keep in mind that some chemicals may stunt their growth.

Once the seedlings have germinated and are about 50 mm high, they can be pricked out and planted (be careful not to damage the roots when pricking out!). Generally the plants grow fast and most will flower within two to three years when grown from seed.

These estimates for how long Stapelia takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world.

The name Stapelia was introduced by Linnaeus who described it in 1737. The name honours Johannes van Stapel, a 17th century physician and botanist

Parts of St apelia gigantea have been reported to be used by the Zulus as a remedy for hysteria. These plants are, however, mainly sought by collectors of succulent plants.

Stapelia variegatta flowers glow at night and in this way they are more attractive to the flies who find it with ease in the dark.¹

Carrion flower (english); aasblom (afrikaans)

All information from PlantzAfrica. The original article, and extra images can be found here: Stapelia

¹ plant-care.com