Known for its striking, dark maroon to almost black, bell-shaped flowers, Stapelia leendertziae, also known as the Black Bells or Carrion Flower, is a unique and sought-after succulent. Native to Southern Africa, this relatively low-maintenance plant features interesting, four-angled, fleshy stems and produces large, velvety blooms that, while visually stunning, emit a scent of decaying flesh to attract its pollinating flies. For succulent enthusiasts seeking an unusual and dramatic addition to their collection, Stapelia leendertziae offers both intriguing aesthetics and ease of care.
 
Stems: Features erect, four-angled, fleshy stems that are typically grey-green and can reach heights of 10-30 cm (4-12 inches). The edges of the stems are often toothed.
Leaves: Leaves are small and short-lived, with the stems performing photosynthesis.
Flowers: The most striking feature is the large, bell-shaped flower, growing up to 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) in diameter. These blooms are a deep maroon to almost black, with a velvety, often wrinkled inner surface.
Scent: Emits an odor similar to decaying meat to attract its fly pollinators. The scent is usually only strong up close.
Pollination: Relies on flies for pollination, mimicking rotting flesh to attract them.
Fruit: Produces horn-shaped seed pods containing seeds with silky parachutes for wind dispersal after successful pollination.
 
Origin and Habitat:
Stapelia leendertziae is native to Southern Africa, specifically found in parts of South Africa (Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga provinces) and Eswatini (Swaziland).
Its natural habitat includes grassland, stony or rocky ground with shallow, sandy soils, rocky outcrops (often in the shade of trees and bushes), and dry thicket. It can be found at altitudes ranging from 450 to 1626 meters. Plants in the wild often grow in clumps, particularly under the protection of larger woody plants.
 
Cultivation and Care:
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid intense afternoon sun, which can scorch the stems. East or west-facing windows are ideal indoors.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil, such as a commercial cactus and succulent mix or a mix amended with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand.
Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy. Overwatering is detrimental.
Temperature: Thrives in warm temperatures (20-30°C / 68-86°F) during the growing season. It is not frost-tolerant and needs protection below 10°C (50°F).
Humidity: Average indoor humidity is generally sufficient.
Fertilizing: Fertilize lightly with a diluted liquid fertilizer once or twice during the growing season.
Potting: Repot every few years as needed, using a pot with good drainage.
Propagation: Easily propagated by stem cuttings, allowing the cut end to callous before planting. Can also be grown from seed, though slower.
Flowering: Typically flowers in late summer or autumn. Mature plants with adequate light and a winter rest are more likely to bloom.
 
Considerations:
Scent: Be aware of the flower's scent, especially if grown indoors.
Pests: Generally resistant but can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites.
 
Stapelia leendertziae is a remarkable succulent known for its unique dark, large, and velvety flowers with a carrion-like scent. While uncommon in the wild, it is cultivated for its unusual beauty. Providing it with bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and careful watering will allow you to enjoy this captivating plant.
 
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* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.