Scientific Name:

Stapelia glanduliflora

Common name:

Glandular Stapelia, Glandular Flowered Stapelia

Family:

Apocynaceae

Sub-Family:

Asclepiadoideae

Tribe:

Stapeliae

Genus:

Stapelia

Origin:

South Africa

Hardiness Zone:

13b

9a

ABout the PLant

The Stapelia glanduliflora succulent is a unique and captivating plant native to South Africa. It is an evergreen perennial that grows up to 30 cm tall and has a sprawling habit. The stems are thick and fleshy, with small, star-shaped leaves that are light green in color. The most striking feature of the Stapelia glanduliflora is its large, five-petaled flowers which can reach up to 15 cm in diameter. These flowers come in shades of yellow, orange, pink or purple and have a distinctively pungent smell reminiscent of rotting meat - hence its common name of ‘carrion flower’. This smell attracts pollinators such as flies and beetles who help the plant reproduce. In terms of care requirements, the Stapelia glanduliflora prefers well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. It should be kept in full sun for best flowering results but can tolerate partial shade too. Watering should be done sparingly; it is best to allow the soil to dry out between waterings as this species does not like wet feet! In addition, it will benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring through fall). This fascinating succulent has been cultivated since the late 1800s and continues to be popular among gardeners today due to its unusual blooms and easy care requirements. If you’re looking for something different for your garden or windowsill, then why not give this remarkable plant a try?

The Stapelia glanduliflora succulent does best in bright indirect light. This means that it should be placed in an area where it will receive plenty of light, but not direct sunlight. It should also be kept away from any strong drafts or air conditioning vents. Medium to low light is also acceptable for this succulent, but it won't flower as well in those conditions.

Stapelia glanduliflora succulents prefer a well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level. The soil should be light and airy, such as a cactus mix or sandy loam. It's important to keep the soil moist but not soggy, so make sure it has good drainage. Additionally, Stapelia glanduliflora succulents need plenty of sunlight to thrive.

The Stapelia glanduliflora succulent is a low-maintenance plant that does best with infrequent watering. It should be watered about once every two to three weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the summer months, you may need to water more often if the temperatures are particularly hot and dry.

The ideal humidity conditions for the Stapelia glanduliflora succulent are between 40-50%. This means that the air should not be too dry or too humid. The plant should also be watered regularly, but not too often. If the soil is allowed to dry out completely between waterings, it will help maintain the proper humidity levels for this succulent.