Starfish Cactus (Orbea variegata): Carrion Flower Succulent

Overview

Starfish Cactus (Orbea variegata, syn. Stapelia variegata) is a low, clumping succulent from South Africa with 4-angled, toothed stems that spread horizontally. Its claim to fame is the extraordinary, starfish-shaped flowers: 5 pointed petals, pale yellow with transverse brown-purple stripes, and a central annulus. The flowers emit a faint carrion odor to attract fly pollinators. Blooms appear in late summer to fall. A conversation piece for succulent collectors. Easy to grow in bright shade.

Key Features

• Stems: 4-angled, toothed, gray-green with purple mottling; prostrate.
• Flowers: Starfish-shaped, 2–3 in; yellow with purple bands; carrion scent.
• Bloom: Late summer to fall.
• Habit: Low, spreading clump; 3–4 in tall.

Care Guidelines

Light

Bright shade / filtered light. Avoid hot sun.

Water

Moderate in growth; dry in winter. Drought-tolerant.

Soil

Very well-drained, gritty. Mineral mix.

Propagation

Easy from stem cuttings.

Taxonomy

Family:	Asclepiadaceae
Genus:	Orbea (ORB-ee-uh)
Species:	variegata (var-ee-GAY-tuh)
Synonyms:	Stapelia variegata, Stisseria variegata