Toad Plant
stapelia leendertziae
Also known as: ["Starfish Flower","Carrion Flower"]
Overview
A succulent plant known for its unusual star-shaped, hairy flowers that emit a carrion-like odor to attract pollinators.
Benefits & Perks
["unique flowers","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Stapelia |
| Botanical Name: | Stapelia leendertziae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with excellent drainage or outdoor rock garden in arid regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°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 sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after flowering.
- 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 morning sun; protect from intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; provide shade during peak sun hours; place in a spot with filtered light to avoid scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 10–14 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy, water-retentive mixes; use pots with drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); cooler winter temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) to induce dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Keep lightly moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain moderate humidity around cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining medium, small pots.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use sterile tools to prevent infection; maintain warmth and humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems; remove any dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Prune to remove dead or damaged stems, encourage bushier growth, and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged parts; shape plant carefully.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to minimize fungal risk.
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 improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or root rot in cold; scorching, leaf drop, or dehydration in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, increasing susceptibility to root rot and fungal infections.
Solution: Protect from frost; ensure good drainage; reduce watering in cool conditions; move indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, and wilting, especially if combined with intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicStapelia leendertziae is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known toxins harmful to felines. However, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's texture.
⚠️ Symptoms:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to cats
Dogs
Non-toxicStapelia leendertziae is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to canines. However, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's texture.
⚠️ Symptoms:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to dogs
Humans
Non-toxicStapelia leendertziae is not known to have toxic effects on humans. The plant is primarily appreciated for its unique appearance and fragrance, which attracts pollinators such as flies. There are no documented cases of toxicity in humans.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to humans
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does Stapelia leendertziae 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 leendertziae?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during the dormant season.
Q: Can Stapelia leendertziae be grown indoors?
A: Yes, but it requires bright light and excellent drainage to thrive indoors.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 10–14 days during acti |
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