Stapelia (Carrion Flower) Care: Weird, Wonderful, and Easy

Stapelias are succulents with a twist: star-shaped, often hairy flowers that smell like rotting meat to attract fly pollinators. Native to South Africa and Namibia, these 50+ species offer bizarre beauty—fleshy, angled stems and blooms in red, purple, yellow, and stripes. They're conversation pieces, not bouquet material.

Light

Bright light to full sun. In nature, they grow in partial shade; indoors, they need more intensity. South or west window. Low light = weak, etiolated stems.

Water: Seasonal Extremes

• Spring–Summer (growth): Water thoroughly when soil is dry. Add dilute fertilizer.
• Fall–Winter (rest): Water barely—once a month or less. Keep stems from shriveling.

Water temperature: at least 50°F (10°C). Cold water shocks roots.

Soil and Pots

Sharp drainage is non-negotiable. Use cactus mix + extra perlite/pumice (1:1). Add a layer of pebbles at the bottom. Shallow pots work best—roots are shallow.

Temperature

Active: 70–90°F (21–32°C). Winter: 50–60°F (10–15°C) for rest. Some species need a cool period to bloom.

Propagation

Easy from stem cuttings in spring. Let cut ends callus 2–3 days, then plant in dry mix. Water sparingly until rooted. Seeds also work but are slower.

Notable Species

• S. gigantea – huge flowers, up to 16 inches
• S. grandiflora – classic star, zebra-striped
• S. hirsuta – densely hairy blooms
• S. variegata – mottled stems, smaller flowers

Why Grow Them?

For the sheer weirdness. The flowers are evolutionary marvels, and the stems are sculptural year-round. Just warn guests before they lean in for a sniff.