Stapeliads
A divided genus
Once, all carrion flowers were lumped into one genus: stapelia. Now, however, it’s recognized that there are multiple genera spanning multiple continents.
Carrion Flowers
Something that all stapeliads (even those no longer in that genus) share is the rancid-smelling flowers that have evolved to attract flies. Larger flowers have a larger smell, but most grown in cultivation are smaller and produce less of a stink.
Location in the wild
Plants from genera that once were referred to as Stapeliads can be found worldwide, though ‘true’ stapeliads are primarily from Africa. Notably, most are from South Africa, although a few can be found throughout the continent.
The typical “stapeliad” succulent you’ll find labelled as such today is likely to be an African succulent of some kind, or a hybrid descendent of such.
Huernia zebrina
The common and easily recognizable lifesaver plant!
Cultivation
These are hardy and easy to grow, tolerating nights into the high 20s if kept dry and protected from frost. They do extremely well with hot summers, although they should be protected from direct sun during the hottest parts of the day.
Pot in well-draining soil and water regularly in summer, and hardly at all in winter.
Propagation
These grow readily from cuttings or offsets, although they will rot if kept too wet while establishing.
MORE COMING!
