Dummer's Stapelia
orbea dummeri
Also known as: ["Stapelia dummeri"]
Overview
A succulent plant with fleshy, four-angled stems and distinctive star-shaped flowers, native to arid regions.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Orbea |
| Botanical Name: | Orbea dummeri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor in well-drained soil
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light or partial shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter strong sunlight; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
fast-draining, sandy cactus mix with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use unglazed clay pots for better aeration; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes prolonged cold or heat.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when growth slows.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also be used but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut a healthy stem.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep lightly moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent infection; do not overwater cuttings; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a node or junction; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged stems, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased stems; wear gloves to avoid skin irritation.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Use fresh cactus mix; ensure good drainage; water sparingly after repotting; place in bright indirect light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce or cease watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or sunburn on stems in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes root rot due to reduced evaporation, and may lead to fungal infections.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; provide insulation if near cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Causes dehydration, leaf scorch, and may trigger premature flowering or dormancy.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently but carefully to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use cactus-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Orbea dummeri may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The plant's sap can also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Orbea dummeri by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of toxic compounds in the plant. The milky sap can also cause skin irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOrbea dummeri contains small amounts of toxic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant's milky sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Orbea dummeri?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter dormancy.
Q: Does Orbea dummeri require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, but protection from intense midday sun may be needed in hot climates.
Q: Are the flowers fragrant?
A: Yes, the flowers emit a strong, unpleasant odor, often described as carrion-like, to attract pollinators like flies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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