How to Grow and Care for the Death Star Plant

The “Death Star Plant,” scientifically known as Huernia schneideriana, is a succulent often called Red Dragon Flower. This succulent captivates enthusiasts with its distinctive, star-like blooms. Its evocative nickname stems from the dark, intricate appearance of its flowers, which draw comparisons to the iconic celestial body.

Unveiling the “Death Star Plant”

The common moniker “Death Star Plant” originates from the striking appearance of Huernia schneideriana’s flowers. These bell-shaped blooms, measuring approximately 1.2 inches (3 cm) in diameter, feature a brownish-red exterior. The interior is a velvety reddish-black, often with a deep purple-black center, creating a visually dramatic contrast that resembles a miniature, dark star. The flowers also emit a faint, unpleasant odor that attracts pollinators like flies.

This succulent belongs to the Apocynaceae family, specifically within the genus Huernia. Huernia schneideriana is recognized as a distinct species native to Tanzania, in Eastern and Southern Africa. Its glaucous-green stems form clumps that can be erect, prostrate, or pendulous, growing up to 18 inches (45 cm) long. These stems are characterized by deltoid tubercles, often spirally twisted.

Essential Care Guidelines

Huernia schneideriana prefers bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat where it often grows beneath other plants. While it can tolerate some direct sunlight, prolonged exposure to intense sun can cause stems to develop a reddish or purple hue, or even sunburn. Indoors, a spot near a window receiving at least six hours of bright, filtered light daily is suitable.

Water sparingly, as Huernia schneideriana is highly susceptible to root rot from overwatering. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until it drains, then allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. During dormant cooler months, significantly reduce or stop watering entirely. Using a shallow container and a clay pot can aid in quicker soil drying.

The plant requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent water accumulation around its roots. A suitable blend includes 50 percent pumice or perlite, 25 percent peat or organic mulch, and 25 percent sand, or a commercial cactus or succulent mix. This composition imitates the sandy, arid conditions of its native environment. An underlayment of coarse gravel can also improve drainage.

Huernia schneideriana thrives in moderate temperatures, ideally between 59°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C) during the day. It is not tolerant of temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and must be protected from frost. It does not require high humidity; average indoor humidity levels are sufficient. Good air circulation is beneficial.

Fertilize with caution, as over-fertilization can be detrimental. During the active growing season (May to September), apply a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer once a month or every 4-6 weeks. A low-nitrogen formula, such as 2-7-7, is recommended. Avoid fertilizing entirely during the plant’s dormant period in fall and winter.

Addressing Common Challenges and Concerns

Huernia schneideriana is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as a precaution, keep all plants out of reach of curious pets and children. Most succulents are non-toxic, but some varieties can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested.

Huernia schneideriana can encounter common succulent pests such as mealybugs and aphids. Prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil is effective for infestations. Scale insects can also be an issue; severe infestations may require isolating the plant and treating with isopropyl alcohol. Good air circulation helps prevent pest issues.

Diseases in Huernia schneideriana are often linked to improper watering. Overwatering is the primary cause of fungal issues and root rot, which can quickly lead to decline. Ensuring the soil dries completely between waterings and providing adequate drainage are the best preventative measures. Mushy tissue at the plant’s core indicates rot.

A lack of flowering is often related to insufficient light, as adequate light is necessary for photosynthesis and energy production for blooming. Too much nitrogen or too little phosphorus in the fertilizer can also inhibit flower production. Optimal light exposure and a balanced feeding regimen during the growing season encourage blooms. Leggy growth, characterized by thin, pale, and spindly stems, indicates insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location resolves this.

Propagating Your “Death Star Plant”

Propagating Huernia schneideriana is straightforward, most commonly achieved through stem cuttings. The best time for propagation is during the plant’s active growing season, in spring or early summer.

Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and make a clean cut. After taking the cutting, allow the cut end to “callus over” for a few days. This process involves the cut surface drying and forming a protective layer, which helps prevent rot when planted.

Once callused, plant the cutting into a well-draining soil mix, similar to what is used for mature plants. Insert the cutting just deep enough for it to stand securely, about half an inch to an inch. Keep the soil lightly moist, but not saturated, and place the pot in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Roots develop within a few weeks, indicated by a gentle resistance when lightly tugged.

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