Stapelia Varieties
On this page
Stapelia plants are striking succulents admired for their unusual star-shaped flowers and creeping growth habit. Native to South Africa, these plants are easy to grow and reward collectors with dramatic blooms that are unlike almost any other house plant.
TL;DR
Stapelia is an easy-care succulent grown for its dramatic, often large flowers. It tolerates varied light and soil conditions, needs minimal winter watering, and is easily propagated from cuttings or seed, making it ideal for collectors of unusual plants.
Stapelia Gigantea
Stapelias are South African plants with short, succulent stems that often branch to form a carpet. Their most attractive feature are their large flowers which grow from the base of the plant, only rarely at the top. Their disadvantage, however, is their unpleasant odor. The stems of 5. gigantea are winged on the edges and covered with minute, distant teeth. The long-stalked flowers may be up to 35 cm (14 in) across. The corolla lobes have long, very narrow points; they are pale yellow with short, black, wavy, transverse stripes.
It is an undemanding plant that will grow in sun as well as partial shade, in heavy, clay soil as well as in light, sandy compost. In winter, either transfer the plant to a cool position and water very sparingly, or leave it in its permanent location and water normally. Propagation by vegetative means or from seeds is not difficult. Separate stem segments and leave them to dry for several days before inserting them in compost. Seeds will germinate at a temperature of 20-25° C (68°-77°F).
Stapelia Grandiflora
This Stapelia has quadrangular stems covered with fine hairs. The edges have spiny teeth spaced far apart. These teeth bear minute, scale-like leaves that soon drop. The flowers, about 15 cm (6 in) in diameter, are flat with short tubes and covered with long hairs. The corolla lobes are dark purple above with yellowish transverse stripes, and blue-green beneath.
Stapelia Variegata
The Carrion Plant is the most common species of Stapelia. It readily cross-breeds with the other species. It forms large clumps of fleshy stems coloured green or grey-green, often reddish. The flowers, sometimes as many as five, are 5-9 cm (2-3 ½ inch) across and appear in late summer or early autumn. The corolla lobes, spotted yellow and brown, are broadly ovate, bluntly pointed at the tip, and transversely tubercled so that they appear to be wrinkled. The marked variability of the flowers is why the species includes many varieties. Var. atropurpurea has brownish-red tubercles on the corolla lobes.
“Stapelia captivates with beauty that surprises the eye and challenges the nose.”
More Information On Stapelia Varieties
Stapelia is a genus of South African succulents valued for its distinctive, often spectacular flowers and its low-maintenance nature. These plants grow as clumps or carpets of short, fleshy stems that branch freely. While their blooms are visually dramatic, Stapelias are also famous for producing a strong odour, designed in nature to attract pollinating insects. Stapelia gigantea is the most impressive species, producing enormous flowers that may reach up to 35 cm across. The blooms arise from the base of the plant on long stalks, with pale yellow petals marked by dark, wavy stripes and long pointed tips. The winged stems are edged with small teeth, giving the plant a sculptural appearance even when not in flower. Despite its exotic look, it is remarkably adaptable, thriving in both full sun and partial shade, and tolerating a wide range of soil types. Stapelia grandiflora is smaller but equally striking, with hairy, star-shaped flowers around 15 cm in diameter. Its deep purple upper surface contrasts with yellow markings, while the underside shows blue-green tones. The stems are quadrangular and lightly hairy, adding further texture. Stapelia variegata, commonly known as the Carrion Plant, is the most widely grown species. It forms dense clumps of green to grey-green stems and produces multiple flowers in late summer or early autumn. The wrinkled, spotted petals vary greatly in colour and pattern, making each bloom unique. Stapelia plants require minimal care. During winter, watering should be reduced, especially if kept in cooler conditions. Propagation is simple: stem cuttings should be dried for several days before planting, while seeds germinate readily in warm conditions. With basic care, Stapelias provide an unforgettable display.
About the author
Rupert Foxton-Smythe is a seasoned horticulturist and avid plant enthusiast with over three decades of experience in the field of botany. As a leading expert at Houseplant Guru, Rupert brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for all things green.
View profile →Related care guides
Cultivating Exotic Plants
Raising colorful and exotic house plants is an exciting introduction to exotic species, and recreating their natural habitat offers a challenge of its own.
How to Plant a Pip
If you enjoy growing house plants from seed, and like saving money, then next time you eat exotic fruit, plant the pips or stones.
Growing Plants at an East-Facing Window
A position at a window provides plants with strong indoor light, whichever way the window faces.