Starfish Flower
orbea schweinfurthii
Also known as: ["Starfish Cactus","Toad Cactus"]
Overview
A succulent plant with unusual starfish-shaped flowers and fleshy stems.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","fragrant flowers","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Orbea |
| Botanical Name: | Orbea schweinfurthii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor in rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°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 annually or when stems become overgrown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of direct morning sun or filtered light; adjust for intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with dappled light if outdoors; indoors, use a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak sun hours; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
fast-draining, sandy cactus mix with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use a mix with inorganic components.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C) during active growth; tolerate mild cold but prefer stable warmth; avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in dormancy
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
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 a few days.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use sterile tools; maintain warmth and humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a node or junction; remove entire stems if they are dead or diseased.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and encourage new growth; minimal pruning needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of cuttings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) 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 the plant becomes root-bound; only repot if necessary as they prefer being slightly pot-bound.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check root health; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting the stem or leaves; 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 stem shriveling in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot due to reduced evaporation and increased moisture retention.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; insulate pots with bubble wrap if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, sunburn, and wilting, especially if combined with intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure drainage; use shade cloth outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use cactus-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer (half strength) every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Orbea schweinfurthii. The plant's latex can also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Orbea schweinfurthii by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's toxic compounds. The latex may also cause skin irritation if contacted.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOrbea schweinfurthii contains toxic compounds, primarily in its stem and latex, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's milky sap is particularly irritating.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Orbea schweinfurthii easy to care for?
A: It requires moderate care but is low maintenance once established.
Q: Are the flowers fragrant?
A: Yes, the flowers have a distinct fragrance.
Q: Can this plant be grown indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors with sufficient light and proper drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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