Starfish Flower

stapelia schinzii

Also known as: ["Toad Plant","Carrion Flower"]

Family: Apocynaceae Genus: Stapelia Category: Succulents & Cacti

Overview

A succulent plant known for its unusual star-shaped, fleshy flowers that emit a scent resembling rotting meat to attract pollinators.

Benefits & Perks

["low maintenance","rare/collector’s item","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae
Genus: Stapelia
Botanical Name: Stapelia schinzii

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Succulents & Cacti
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot with excellent drainage or rock garden in arid regions
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Fragrance Lovers
  • 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
  • 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 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. Indoors, place near a south or west-facing window with sheer curtains. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak sun hours.

Warning Signs: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, or stem rot indicate poor drainage or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even light; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct afternoon sun

Watering

every 10–14 days during growing season, reduce to monthly in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.

Soil

fast-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use a mix with at least 30% inorganic components

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C) during active growth. Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.

Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid sudden temperature swings

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter

Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy stem cutting.
  2. Let it callus for 1–2 days.
  3. Plant in moist propagation medium.
  4. Keep warm and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing

Environment

Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid (50–60%), and bright indirect light

Medium

Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio)

Hormone

Optional, but can help speed up rooting

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months

Tools Needed

Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix

Quick Tips

Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use bottom heat to encourage rooting; avoid overwatering

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems just above a node or junction; remove any weak or crossing stems

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; 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 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 the plant becomes root-bound. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.

Checklist

Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid stem contact

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring moisture reaches the roots without wetting the stem. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away completely.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water precisely to the soil, avoiding the stem.
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 and aeration

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis, wilting, or stem collapse 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; provide insulation if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, or wilting, especially if combined with inadequate water.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water carefully to prevent overheating.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Do not fertilize in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Stapelia schinzii are not commonly reported, as this species primarily consists of succulent stems rather than true leaves. However, discoloration may occur due to nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or stress.

Wilting in Stapelia schinzii is often a sign of overwatering or root rot, as the plant is adapted to arid conditions. It can also occur due to extreme heat or drought if the plant's water reserves are depleted.

Leaf spots are not commonly reported on Stapelia schinzii, as it lacks true leaves. However, similar symptoms may appear on the stems as dark, necrotic lesions caused by fungal or bacterial infections.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can affect Stapelia schinzii, especially if grown in poorly drained soil or exposed to excessive moisture. This condition leads to soft, discolored tissues and eventual plant death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that ingest Stapelia schinzii may experience mild gastrointestinal issues. The sap can cause mild skin irritation upon contact.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting drooling lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Stapelia schinzii by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's sap can also cause mild skin irritation.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Stapelia schinzii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's milky sap may also cause skin irritation upon contact.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and direct skin contact with the sap. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does Stapelia schinzii smell bad?

A: The unpleasant odor mimics decaying flesh to attract flies and beetles, which act as pollinators.

Q: How often should I water Stapelia schinzii?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during dormancy.

Q: Can Stapelia schinzii be grown indoors?

A: Yes, but ensure it receives bright, indirect light and good ventilation to prevent fungal issues.

Quick Reference
Family: Apocynaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 10–14 days during grow
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","fragrance lovers"]
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