Stapelia gigantea, often known as “Flower of Bones” or “Carrion Flower,” is a distinctive succulent recognized for its striking, large, star-shaped blooms. These unique flowers can span up to 16 inches across and feature a pale yellow to reddish-brown hue, often adorned with intricate patterns and fine hairs. While visually appealing, the plant earns its common names from the carrion-like scent its flowers emit, a characteristic that serves to attract flies for pollination.
Understanding Flower of Bones Growth Cycle
Stapelia gigantea exhibits a moderate growth rate, forming clumps of upright, four-angled succulent stems that can reach 8 to 12 inches tall. These spineless, velvety green stems may turn reddish-purple in direct sunlight. Plants grown from cuttings typically flower within one to two years.
The flowering season for Stapelia gigantea primarily occurs in late summer to fall, though blooms can appear throughout the year depending on environmental conditions. In some regions, its most prolific blooming period is from September to October. Once a bud appears, it typically takes a few weeks for it to develop into a fully open flower. Individual flowers are short-lived, lasting only a few days. However, plants can produce successive blooms, extending the overall flowering period for up to two months.
Key Environmental Factors for Growth and Flowering
Stapelia gigantea requires specific environmental conditions for growth and blooming. Bright, indirect light is ideal, with some morning sun being beneficial. While it can tolerate full sun, intense afternoon sun can scorch the foliage and may cause stems to turn reddish or purple.
As a succulent, Stapelia gigantea has low watering needs. The “soak and dry” method is recommended, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot and fungal infections, so it is safer to underwater than to overwater.
Well-draining soil is important to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A succulent or cactus mix works well, or amend regular potting soil to improve drainage. This plant thrives in warm temperatures, ideally ranging from 70°F to 95°F during its active growing season. It is sensitive to cold and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F. Low humidity levels are suitable.
Nutrient requirements are minimal. Light feeding during the growing season with a balanced, diluted fertilizer. Applying a half-strength fertilizer once a month or every four to six weeks during spring and summer is usually sufficient, avoiding fertilization in autumn and winter.
Cultivation Practices to Encourage Blooms
Optimizing the potting environment can encourage Stapelia gigantea to bloom. Using a pot with drainage holes is essential to prevent water accumulation. A slightly root-bound condition can prompt the plant to focus its energy on reproduction, which often results in more prolific flowering. Repotting every two to three years to refresh the soil is typically sufficient.
Strategic placement ensures adequate light for flowering. Placing it near a bright, south-facing window indoors, or in an area outdoors that receives full to partial sun, is ideal. Protection from intense afternoon sun is advisable. Consistent watering during the active growing season, following the soak and dry method, supports healthy growth leading to blooms.
Mimicking a dormancy period with cooler temperatures and reduced watering during winter is beneficial for encouraging future blooms. During this time, allow the soil to dry out completely and water very sparingly, only when the plant shows signs of thirst. This cooler, drier period signals to the plant that it is time to rest, preparing it for a robust flowering cycle in the subsequent growing season.
Preventing common issues like mealybugs, spider mites, and root rot is important. Overwatering is the primary cause of root rot. Removing affected parts and ensuring proper drainage can mitigate this. While Stapelia gigantea does not require extensive pruning, removing any dead or damaged stems helps maintain plant health and direct energy towards productive growth.