Stapelia divaricata

Stapelia divaricata “🌿🌟 The Starfish Succulent with Striking Flowers
Stapelia divaricata is a succulent plant species belonging to the Apocynaceae family, native to the arid and semi-arid regions of southern Africa. This species is prized among succulent enthusiasts for its unusual, star-shaped flowers and clump-forming, fleshy stems. While the blooms can be striking and beautiful, they are also known for emitting a strong, carrion-like odor, which attracts pollinators such as flies.

This plant is part of the Stapelia genus, often collectively called “”Carrion Flowers”” or “”Starfish Flowers”” due to the appearance and scent of their blooms.

🌿 Botanical Overview
Scientific Name: Stapelia divaricata

Common Name: Carrion Flower, Starfish Flower

Family: Apocynaceae

Origin: South Africa

Growth Habit: Clumping, upright, and spreading succulent

Size:

Height: Typically 10–20 cm (4–8 inches)

Spread: Can form broad clumps over time

Stems: Green to greyish-green, 4-angled with soft teeth along the ridges, often with a velvety texture

Flowers:

Star-shaped, deeply lobed with a velvety surface

Colors range from reddish-purple to maroon, often with intricate patterns

Diameter: Around 8–12 cm (3–5 inches)

Flowers produce a distinctive odor reminiscent of rotting meat

Blooming Season: Late summer to early autumn

USDA Hardiness Zones: 10–11

☀️ Sunlight and Temperature Requirements
Sunlight:

Prefers bright, indirect light

Can tolerate some direct morning sunlight but should be protected from harsh afternoon sun, especially in hot climates

Indoors: Place near a bright window with filtered light

Temperature:

Thrives in temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)

Not frost-tolerant; must be kept above 10°C (50°F)

Should be brought indoors or protected in cold weather

🌞 Consistent light ensures compact growth and better flowering.

💧 Watering Routine
Active Growing Season (Spring to Fall):

Water when the top 2–3 cm (1 inch) of soil feels dry

Typically every 7–10 days, less often in cooler weather

Always water deeply, allowing excess to drain completely

Winter Dormancy:

Water very sparingly — once every 3–4 weeks or when stems start to wrinkle slightly

Keep the plant relatively dry to prevent rot

💧 Overwatering is the most common issue; Stapelias are highly sensitive to excessive moisture.

🌱 Soil Requirements
Type:

Needs a very well-draining, gritty soil mix

Recommended mix:

50% cactus or succulent mix

30% perlite or pumice

20% coarse sand or small gravel

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

Drainage is crucial to prevent root rot and stem collapse, especially in cooler seasons.

🌾 Fertilizing Schedule
During Growing Season (Spring to Early Fall):

Fertilize every 4–6 weeks with a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10)

Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers which can cause excessive soft growth

Dormant Season (Winter):

Do not fertilize

Over-fertilizing can lead to weak, elongated stems that are prone to rotting.

✂️ Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning:

Not typically necessary but remove:

Dead or decaying stems

Spent flowers to prevent fungal issues

General Maintenance:

Rotate the plant periodically for even light exposure

Inspect for pests like mealybugs or scale insects

Support:

Mature clumps can sprawl; use shallow pots or low supports if necessary

🌿 Propagation
By Cuttings:

Cut a healthy stem section around 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) long

Allow the cutting to callous for 3–5 days in a shaded area

Plant in dry, well-draining soil and wait 7–10 days before watering

By Seeds:

Sow seeds in a well-draining, lightly moist medium

Keep warm (~25°C / 77°F) with indirect light

Germination can take several weeks

Propagation by cuttings is the quickest and most reliable method.

🐛 Pests and Diseases
Pests:

Mealybugs

Spider mites

Scale insects

Diseases:

Root rot due to overwatering

Fungal infections in high humidity

🛡️ Prevent issues with:

Proper watering

Good air circulation

Occasional pest inspection

Treat pests with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

🌸 Flowering and Aesthetic Appeal
Flowers:

Although short-lived, the flowers are spectacular and exotic

The strong scent attracts flies, which act as pollinators

The visual appeal of the flower contrasts with its notorious smell

Decorative Uses:

Best grown in containers, succulent gardens, or as part of a rare plant collection

Ideal for botanical enthusiasts who enjoy unique and unusual plants

📸 The bold texture of the stems and striking star-shaped blooms make it a conversation starter in any collection.

✅ Conclusion
Stapelia divaricata is a captivating succulent that offers more than just aesthetics — it’s an experience. Its unusual flowers, distinctive stems, and relatively easy care make it a must-have for collectors and succulent lovers who appreciate the rare and unusual.
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