Toad Cactus
stapelia hirsuta
Also known as: ["Starfish Flower","Carrion Flower"]
Overview
A succulent plant known for its unusual, star-shaped flowers that emit a carrion-like odor to attract pollinators.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Stapelia |
| Botanical Name: | Stapelia hirsuta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor rock garden
- 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 root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a south-facing window with sheer curtains indoors; move outdoors in spring/summer with partial shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light; avoid intense midday sun; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 10–14 days during growing season, reduce to monthly in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust frequency based on season and growth phase.
Soil
fast-draining cactus or succulent mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid peat-heavy mixes; top-dress with gravel for aesthetics and drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 70–85°F (21–29°C) during active growth; tolerates 50–60°F (10–15°C) in dormancy; avoid frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust care based on growth phase.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a specialized succulent fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep lightly moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots may form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use bottom heat to encourage rooting; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems to a node; remove any damaged or dead parts.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead stems, and encourage bushier growth; minimal pruning needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during active growth; remove only necessary stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; only repot if necessary to refresh soil or accommodate growth.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating the stem; allow excess water to drain thoroughly; water in the morning to minimize fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during spring and summer, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce or cease watering in fall and winter to mimic dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to commercial potting mix; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stem discoloration in cold; stunted growth or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, causing root rot in wet soil; may enter dormancy prematurely.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; insulate pots in cold climates.
Hot Stress
Can lead to dehydration, sunburn, or premature flowering; may require increased humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; mist foliage sparingly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicStapelia hirsuta is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose a known risk to felines when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicStapelia hirsuta is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicStapelia hirsuta is not considered toxic to humans. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does Stapelia hirsuta smell bad?
A: The plant emits a carrion-like odor to attract pollinators such as flies and beetles.
Q: How often should I water Stapelia hirsuta?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during the dormant winter months.
Q: Can Stapelia hirsuta be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in bright, indirect light with good air circulation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 10–14 days during grow |
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