The Zulu Giant (Stapelia gigantea) is a distinctive succulent known for its unusual appearance. Also called Carrion Flower, Starfish Flower, or Giant Toad Plant, it produces large, star-shaped blooms. These flowers, often pale yellow with maroon markings, can measure up to 14 inches across. The plant features spineless, four-angled stems, resembling a cactus, making it a low-maintenance specimen for indoor or outdoor cultivation in appropriate climates.
Essential Care Requirements
Zulu Giants require bright, indirect light, with protection from intense afternoon sun. Placing them near a south-facing window indoors or in a spot with partial shade outdoors helps prevent sunburn, which can manifest as reddish or purplish stems. Sufficient light promotes healthy growth and flower development.
Watering should follow the “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to become completely dry between applications. Overwatering is a common issue leading to root rot, requiring proper drainage. During cooler winter months, the plant’s water needs significantly decrease, requiring little to no water as it enters dormancy.
A well-draining soil mix is important for Zulu Giant health. A commercial succulent or cactus mix, often amended with perlite or pumice, provides aeration and drainage. Pots must have drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating around the roots. Clay pots are often recommended as they help wick away excess moisture.
Zulu Giants prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 70°F and 95°F. They are intolerant of cold, requiring protection from temperatures below 50°F to prevent damage. While they appreciate average household humidity, extremely high humidity is not necessary. If grown outdoors in colder regions, bring the plant indoors before frost for its survival.
Zulu Giants are not heavy feeders, so fertilization is minimal. During their active growing season in spring and summer, a balanced succulent fertilizer can be applied sparingly. Diluting the fertilizer to half strength and applying it infrequently, perhaps once a month, provides nutrients without risking over-fertilization.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Overwatering is a frequent problem for Zulu Giants, often leading to soft rot, characterized by mushy or blackening stems. Prevent this by adhering to a “soak and dry” watering schedule and ensuring excellent soil drainage. If rot is detected, affected parts should be removed to prevent further spread.
A lack of flowering can occur if the plant does not receive sufficient light or has not reached maturity. Ensuring the plant receives adequate bright, indirect light often encourages blooming. Pests such as mealybugs and spider mites can affect Zulu Giants. These can be managed with organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Leggy growth indicates insufficient light exposure. Moving the plant to a brighter location can help address this issue. While the plant may not revert to a compact form, new growth will be healthier. Maintaining proper light conditions is important for the plant’s structural integrity.
Propagation and Repotting
Propagating Zulu Giants is readily achieved through stem cuttings, ideally taken during the active growing season. A healthy stem segment should be cut and allowed to “callus” or dry for several days, forming a protective seal over the cut end. Once callused, the cutting can be planted in a well-draining succulent mix, where it will eventually root.
Repotting is needed every two to three years, or when the plant has outgrown its current container and becomes root-bound. When repotting, select a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid excess moisture retention. Using fresh, well-draining succulent soil mix during repotting provides renewed nutrients and optimal growing conditions.
Unique Characteristics and Considerations
The most notable feature of the Zulu Giant is its large, star-shaped flower, emitting a strong, distinctive scent. This odor, often described as resembling rotting flesh, attracts flies, which act as the plant’s primary pollinators. While potent, the scent is only noticeable when in close proximity to the bloom or in enclosed spaces.
Stapelia gigantea is toxic to pets and humans if ingested, and its sap can cause skin irritation upon contact. Keep the plant out of reach of children and household animals.