Carrion plants, primarily from the Stapelia genus, are unique succulents known for their fleshy, often four-sided stems and distinctive star-shaped flowers. Their common name comes from the strong, often unpleasant scent their blooms emit, resembling rotting flesh. This odor and unusual appearance make them fascinating additions to any houseplant collection.
Essential Care Guidelines
Carrion plants thrive in bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural habitat under other plants. They tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun, but intense midday sunlight can stress them, causing stems to turn reddish or purple. If indoor natural light is insufficient, supplemental grow lights provide necessary brightness.
Watering these succulents requires balance; overwatering commonly causes root rot. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings, checking moisture with a finger. During the spring and summer growing season, water every 1-3 weeks, significantly reducing it in winter dormancy.
Well-draining soil is paramount, preventing water from pooling around roots. A specialized succulent and cactus potting mix is ideal, or use a homemade blend of equal parts potting soil, sand, and perlite. Shallow terra-cotta pots also help reduce excess moisture.
Carrion plants prefer warm environments, with optimal temperatures between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). They tolerate slightly cooler winter temperatures but keep them above 50°F (10°C) to prevent stress. They adapt well to average indoor humidity, though some species may appreciate slightly higher moisture.
Carrion plants do not require heavy fertilization. During spring and summer, apply a diluted, balanced, low-nitrogen cactus or succulent fertilizer at half-strength every four to six weeks. Cease fertilization entirely during autumn and winter dormancy.
Managing Unique Characteristics
Carrion plants produce a foul odor to attract specific pollinators, primarily flies. The scent, often described as rotting meat, is biological mimicry, luring insects that mistake the flower for a place to feed or lay eggs. Scent intensity and duration vary by species; some, like Stapelia gigantea, are particularly pungent.
Indoors, manage odor by placing the plant in a well-ventilated area or moving it outdoors when in bloom. Flowers often display red, purple, or brown colors and hairy textures, enhancing their resemblance to decaying matter to attract flies. As flies investigate, they inadvertently transfer pollen, facilitating reproduction and sometimes forming distinctive milkweed-like seed pods.
Common Care Challenges
Carrion plants are resilient but can encounter pests. Mealybugs and spider mites commonly infest these succulents. Regular inspection of stems and crevices helps early detection; infestations can be treated with insecticidal soap or by wiping pests away.
Overwatering is the primary cause of diseases, particularly root rot, which quickly leads to plant decline. Ensuring proper drainage through soil and pot, and allowing soil to dry between waterings, is the best preventive measure. If rot is detected, remove affected parts and allow the plant to dry thoroughly before replanting in fresh, well-draining soil.
Flowering issues can arise from insufficient light or lack of a proper dormant period. To encourage blooming, ensure the plant receives bright, indirect sunlight and experiences slightly cooler, drier winter conditions. Keeping the plant slightly root-bound can also encourage it to focus energy on producing flowers.
Propagation and Repotting
Propagating carrion plants is straightforward, commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select and cleanly cut healthy, non-flowering stems. Allow the cut end to callus (dry and heal) for several days to a few weeks in a shady, well-ventilated area before planting. Once callused, plant cuttings in well-draining succulent soil, watering lightly until roots establish.
Repotting is not a frequent necessity; carrion plants can thrive for several years in the same container. Repotting is recommended every two to three years, or when the plant becomes root-bound or the soil degrades. When repotting, select a container only slightly larger and use fresh, well-draining cactus or succulent mix. After repotting, water sparingly for about a week to allow roots to settle.