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 Stapeliads, General information & care.
Helpful information for maintainence of Stapeliads
Genus Stapelia consists of about 45 species of perennial succulents from low, hilly, often rocky terrain, mainly in tropical and southern Africa. They generally have erect, angular, coarsley toothed fleshy stems which branch from the base forming large clumps.
Flowers are usually foul-smelling and are pollinated by flies. Thus the common-name designation, "Carrion Flower". They can be beautifully colored and quite large in some species such as S. nobilis. Always mostly star shaped, thus another common-name designation "Starfish Flower".
Plants will withstand some cold, however it is best to keep above 52 degrees F. They will go dormant at temps. below this.
Other genera included as Stapeliads are Huernia, Orbea, Orbeopsis, Caralluma.
Treat pretty much like cacti. Soak well when watering and allow to have a dry period before watering again. Use a coarse, gritty potting mix with compost for best results.
Fertilize in spring and summer only. Flowering usually starts in early summer and will continue periodically through summer into autumn.
Bright filtered sunlight is best. Just protect from the hottest mid-day summer sunlight.
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