Lifesaver Plant (Huernia zebrina): Striped Carrion Flower

Overview

Lifesaver Plant (Huernia zebrina) is a low, clumping, leafless succulent from southern Africa with 4–5 angled, toothed, gray-green stems. Its extraordinary flowers are the star: 5-pointed, cream-colored petals with bold, dark red-brown zebra stripes and a raised, glossy, burgundy annulus (ring) in the center—resembling a lifesaver candy. The flowers emit a faint carrion odor to attract flies. Blooms appear intermittently in warm months. A fascinating, conversation-starting collector's plant for bright shade.

Key Features

• Stems: 4–5 angled, toothed, gray-green; prostrate/clumping.
• Flowers: Cream with dark red stripes; raised burgundy ring; lifesaver shape.
• Scent: Faint carrion; fly-pollinated.
• Habit: Low, spreading mat; 3–4 in tall.

Care Guidelines

Light

Bright shade / filtered light. No direct 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:	Huernia (hew-ERN-ee-uh)
Species:	zebrina (zeb-REE-nuh)