Stapelia gigantea, often called the “carrion flower” due to its distinctive scent, is a unique succulent. Native to dry desert areas of southeastern Africa, including Tanzania and South Africa, it’s also known as the starfish flower or Zulu giant. Its striking, star-shaped blooms make it a captivating specimen for enthusiasts, whether as a houseplant or in an outdoor garden. This article guides you on propagating this intriguing succulent.
Preparing for Propagation
Preparation is key for successful propagation. The warmer months, typically spring through summer, are ideal when the plant is actively growing. Use clean, sharp cutting instruments like a knife or scissors to ensure precise cuts and minimize damage. A well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix is essential for proper drainage. Select healthy, mature parent plant material and maintain stringent hygiene to prevent disease.
Propagating from Cuttings
Propagating Stapelia gigantea from stem cuttings is a widely used and accessible method. Select a healthy, turgid stem segment and make a precise, few-inch cut with a clean, sharp knife or scissors. Allow the cut end to dry and form a callous for several days to over a week, depending on humidity levels. This callousing helps prevent rot once the cutting is planted.
Once calloused, prepare a small pot with a well-draining potting mix, like a cactus or succulent blend. Insert the calloused end, burying one-quarter to one-third of its length. Avoid burying too much to prevent rot. Water lightly after planting, then allow the soil to dry completely before rewatering. Place in bright, indirect sunlight. Root development takes several weeks to a few months, requiring patience.
Propagating from Seeds
Propagating Stapelia gigantea from seeds is a slower alternative to cuttings. Seeds come from distinctive pods, called “seed horns,” on mature plants. Pods resemble milkweed, containing brown seeds with parachute-like tufts for wind dispersal. Collect seeds when pods are mature, dried, and brown; carefully open them.
Fill shallow trays or pots with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Scatter seeds thinly, then cover with a very thin layer of the mix. Mist gently to moisten without displacing seeds. Maintain consistent warmth (around 70°F/21°C) and high humidity, using a clear plastic dome or plastic wrap to retain moisture. Germination varies, taking weeks to months, so patience is necessary. Once seedlings develop true leaves, transplant them into individual pots with well-draining cactus mix.
Caring for Newly Propagated Plants
After Stapelia gigantea plants root or germinate, focus on nurturing their growth. Provide bright, indirect light; newly established plants thrive here, tolerating some morning or late afternoon sun. Protect from intense midday sun, which can cause reddish or purplish stress coloration.
Water newly propagated plants cautiously. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot, common in succulents. Overwatering causes problems; use a “soak and dry” method. Stapelia gigantea prefers moderate temperatures; avoid exposure below 50°F (10°C). As plants grow (every two to three years), transplant into slightly larger pots with good drainage to accommodate root systems.
Tips for Successful Propagation
Achieving successful propagation of Stapelia gigantea involves a few overarching considerations. Avoiding overwatering remains the most common and significant factor in preventing issues like rot, especially during the rooting phase of cuttings or the early stages of seedling development. A well-draining soil mix is a primary defense against this, but careful monitoring of soil moisture is also essential.
Ensure good air circulation, especially for cuttings, to prevent fungal issues and promote healthy callousing. Patience is key, as both cuttings and seeds take time to establish roots or germinate. If rot occurs, promptly remove affected parts and allow healthy sections to callous before re-rooting. This can salvage material and increase success.