The “Demogorgon Plant” is a popular nickname for Stapelia gigantea, a succulent known for its unusual appearance. This moniker comes from the plant’s large, star-shaped flowers, which resemble the creature from the television series “Stranger Things.”
Identifying the Demogorgon Plant
Stapelia gigantea is a clump-forming succulent native to southern Africa’s desert regions. It features erect, four-angled stems, typically green, that can develop a reddish or purplish hue in intense sunlight. These velvety stems grow up to 12 inches long and are about 1.25 inches thick.
Its large, star-shaped flowers can reach 10 to 16 inches in diameter. These five-petaled blooms are typically pale yellow or cream-colored with thin red or maroon stripes radiating from the center. The flowers have a wrinkled, leathery texture and are often fringed with fine hairs, contributing to their unique appearance.
Demogorgon Plant Care Guide
Stapelia gigantea thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat where it often grows under the protection of other plants. While it can tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun, intense midday sun can cause the stems to develop a red or purple hue as a protective measure. If grown indoors, a south-facing window with filtered light is often ideal to provide sufficient brightness without scorching the plant.
Water Stapelia gigantea using a “soak and dry” approach, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. This succulent stores water in its fleshy stems and is highly drought-tolerant; overwatering commonly causes root rot. Water more frequently during the active growing season (spring and summer), but reduce or stop watering entirely in winter when the plant is dormant. Wrinkled stems can signal a need for water.
For optimal growth, Stapelia gigantea requires a well-draining soil mix. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix is suitable, often amended with perlite, coarse sand, or grit to enhance drainage. Shallow pots with drainage holes are preferable due to the plant’s short roots, preventing excess moisture. Repotting is rarely needed, perhaps every two to three years, or when the plant becomes root-bound.
The plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 70°F and 95°F, and tolerates average to low humidity. It is not cold-hardy and cannot endure temperatures consistently below 50°F, requiring outdoor plants to be brought indoors in colder climates. Good air circulation also helps prevent fungal issues.
Fertilizing Stapelia gigantea is not a frequent requirement. If desired, apply a half-strength, balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer formulated for cacti or succulents once a month during the active growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in autumn or winter when the plant is dormant.
The Unique Aspect of the Demogorgon Plant
The most distinctive characteristic of Stapelia gigantea is the strong, unpleasant odor emitted by its flowers. This scent, often described as resembling rotting flesh or carrion, earns the plant common names like “carrion flower” or “toad plant.” The plant produces this smell to attract specific pollinators, primarily flies.
Flies are drawn to the odor and the flower’s appearance, which includes a fleshy color, wavy lines, and hairy fringes, mimicking decaying animal matter. As flies investigate and sometimes lay eggs on the flower, they inadvertently pick up pollen, transferring it to other Stapelia blooms and facilitating pollination. The smell is most noticeable when the plant is in bloom and often only in close proximity, especially indoors.
Common Demogorgon Plant Issues
Overwatering is the primary cause of issues for Stapelia gigantea, often leading to root and stem rot. If rot occurs, promptly remove affected parts with a clean, sharp tool. Allow healthy sections to callous for several days before re-rooting them in dry, well-draining soil. Ensuring the soil dries completely between waterings is the most effective preventative measure.
Stapelia gigantea can be susceptible to common succulent pests like mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cotton-like insects, which can be removed by wiping them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Regular inspection helps detect and address infestations early.
A lack of blooms can occur if the plant is not receiving sufficient light. Stapelia gigantea requires several hours of bright, indirect light to encourage flowering; insufficient light hinders bud formation. Ensuring adequate light, especially during its growing season, promotes more abundant flowering.
Leggy growth, where stems appear stretched and elongated, indicates insufficient light. This condition results from the plant reaching for a light source. Moving the plant to a brighter location or supplementing with a grow light produces more compact and robust growth.