The Stapelia genus encompasses unique succulent plants known for their distinctive star-shaped flowers. These blooms often feature unusual textures and patterns, ranging from small and intricate to impressively large. Many species are nicknamed “carrion flowers” due to a scent resembling decaying matter, an adaptation for attracting specific pollinators.
Understanding the Stapelia Genus
The Stapelia genus comprises low-growing, spineless, stem succulent plants primarily from Southern Africa. These perennials are recognized by their fleshy, typically four-angled stems, which can be uniformly green or develop reddish hues in sunlight. They lack traditional leaves, with photosynthesis and water storage occurring in their thick stems. Stapelia flowers are generally star-shaped, often visibly hairy, and possess five petals. Many species emit an odor reminiscent of rotting flesh to attract flies for pollination, though some have a sweet fragrance.
Key Characteristics of Stapelia Varieties
Distinguishing Stapelia varieties involves observing characteristics of their flowers and stems. Flower size varies significantly, from a few centimeters to over 40 centimeters across. Petal coloration and patterning offer wide diversity, including solid colors, spots, or intricate stripes in shades of yellow, red, purple, and brown. The presence and density of hairs on the petals also differ, contributing to unique textures.
Scent profile is another differentiator; while many have a carrion-like odor, its intensity varies. Some exceptions, like Stapelia flavopurpurea, have a pleasant, sweet fragrance. Stem appearance also provides identification clues, with variations in thickness, color, and the presence of small tubercles or ridges along their four angles. These features define each Stapelia variety.
Exploring Popular Stapelia Varieties
Stapelia gigantea
Stapelia gigantea, known as the Zulu Giant or Carrion Flower, produces some of the largest succulent flowers. Its star-shaped blooms reach 10 to 16 inches (25-40 cm) in diameter. Petals are typically pale yellow, cream, or biscuit-colored, with irregular crimson to maroon-red transverse ridges, giving a pinkish appearance. These large flowers are covered with pale purple hairs and have a leathery texture.
The plant emits a strong, unpleasant scent mimicking rotting flesh. Stems are erect, succulent, and four-angled, growing up to 10 inches (25 cm) tall and 1.2 inches (3 cm) thick. They are typically green but can develop a reddish-purple hue in direct sunlight.
Stapelia grandiflora
Stapelia grandiflora, known as the Starfish Flower or Giant Toad Plant, features large, star-shaped flowers 6 to 10 inches (15-25 cm) in diameter. These blooms exhibit shades of reddish-brown to purple or chocolate, often with an orange tint, and can be covered with long, fine hairs, especially at their center. The flower’s texture is often described as velvety. It emits a distinct odor resembling rotting meat.
Stems are fleshy, spineless, and four-angled, typically growing upright or spreading. They are pale green and can turn reddish in ample sunlight. These stems usually reach 3 to 12 inches (7-30 cm) in height and can form dense clumps.
Stapelia hirsuta
Stapelia hirsuta, known as the Hairy Stapelia or African Starfish Flower, is characterized by its densely shaggy, hairy flowers. The star-shaped blooms are typically 2 to 6 inches (5-15 cm) wide, displaying colors from red to yellow, often with reddish-purple hairs. The epithet “hirsuta” refers to these prominent hairs. This variety produces a foul odor resembling rotting flesh.
Stems are leafless, subquadrangular, and generally fine-haired. They are green but can redden significantly in full sun or during cooler winter months. The plants typically form a groundcover or clumping habit.
Stapelia variegata (Orbea variegata)
Stapelia variegata, now Orbea variegata, is a variety often called the Starfish Plant or Starfish Flower. Its flowers are moderately sized, typically 2 to 5 inches (5-12.5 cm) across. Blooms are highly variable, commonly featuring a yellow to pale white background with distinctive deep red to maroon speckles or patterns. They often have a raised central circle or a smaller, well-defined star within the main five-petaled structure.
The plant’s carrion-like scent is present, though its strength varies. Stems are fleshy, four-sided, and have protuberances resembling thorns, forming clusters up to 10 inches (25 cm) in height. These stems tend to be longer than some other related species.
Stapelia flavopurpurea
Stapelia flavopurpurea is a smaller Stapelia variety, distinguished by its unique and often pleasant fragrance, a rarity within the genus. Its star-shaped flowers are relatively small, typically up to 2 inches (5 cm) across. Blooms showcase colors including green, yellow, brown, orange, or pale red on the lobes, often with maroon overtones and centers. The flower’s center is often white and covered with red clavate hairs.
Stems are deep green, can be suffused with purple, and have a somewhat sandpapery texture. They are square in cross-section and grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) long, forming diffuse clumps of decumbent stems.
Stapelia erectiflora
Stapelia erectiflora is noted for its upright flowering stalks, as implied by its name. The flowers are quite small, generally reaching 0.4 inches (1 cm) in diameter. These minute blooms are typically brownish-green to purplish, often displaying transverse stripes and short white hairs. Unlike many relatives, Stapelia erectiflora has a very mild or even sweet scent.
The plant forms clumps of dull green, four-ribbed stems with small, noticeable teeth. These stems are upright, decumbent at the base, and can grow up to 7 inches (17.5 cm) long. Small, erect flowers often appear several on the same stem.
Choosing and Identifying Stapelia Varieties
When selecting a Stapelia variety, consider your preferences for flower size, color, pattern, and scent. For a large bloom, Stapelia gigantea is a prominent choice. If a less noticeable or pleasant fragrance is preferred, varieties like Stapelia flavopurpurea or Stapelia erectiflora might be more suitable. The flower’s specific coloration and hairiness can also guide your selection.
Identifying an unknown Stapelia plant involves close observation of its key characteristics. Examine the stems for thickness, color, and unique markings. Focus on the flowers, noting their precise size, base color, and patterns like spots or stripes. Pay attention to the texture and density of hairs on the petals, as this is a significant identifying feature. Finally, assess the scent profile; some odors are subtle, others pronounced. Comparing these observations against known varietal descriptions helps identify the plant.