Starfish Flower Stapelia
orbea speciosa
Also known as: ["Starfish Cactus","Toad Cactus"]
Overview
A succulent plant known for its unusual, starfish-shaped flowers with a distinct carrion-like odor to attract pollinators.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Orbea |
| Botanical Name: | Orbea speciosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden, succulent container, or sunny indoor spot with excellent drainage
- 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 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 if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light; use sheer curtains to filter strong sun; avoid shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix with minimal organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes prolonged cold.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent warmth; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also be used but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep lightly moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, propagation medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humidity dome if possible; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a node or junction; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any damaged or leggy stems.
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
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; use fresh, well-draining soil.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check root health; ensure proper drainage; avoid overpotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; remove excess water.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed; 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 coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Stem shriveling, leaf drop, or root rot in cold; wilting or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot or tissue damage.
Solution: Keep plant in a warm, draft-free area; avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C); use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, sunburn, or scorching of stems.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but still allow soil to dry.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; 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 speciosa may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation from the plant's latex. The physiological impact is limited to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Orbea speciosa by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's latex content. The effects are generally not life-threatening but may cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicOrbea speciosa contains toxic latex that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant's physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does my Orbea speciosa have a bad smell?
A: The plant produces a carrion-like odor to attract pollinators, which is normal for its flowering period.
Q: How often should I water Orbea speciosa?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Can Orbea speciosa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, indirect light indoors, but ensure good ventilation to prevent fungal issues.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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