Starfish Plant: A Fascinating Succulent with a Striking Bloom
Often recognized by its common name, the Starfish Plant, Stapelia variegata is a captivating succulent belonging to the Apocynaceae family. Native to the coastal regions of the Western Cape in South Africa, this low-growing, spineless plant is a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts for its unusual appearance and distinctive flowers.
 
Key Characteristics:
Stems: Stapelia variegata features four-angled, fleshy stems that typically grow in a clumping or sprawling manner, reaching a height of about 10 cm (4 inches) and spreading up to 50 cm (20 inches) wide. The stems are usually greenish with mottled brown or purple patterns, especially when exposed to good sunlight. They have soft, tooth-like projections along the ridges.
Leaves: Like many succulents adapted to arid environments, the leaves of Stapelia variegata are rudimentary and short-lived, with the photosynthesis primarily occurring in the stems.
Flowers: The most remarkable feature of the Starfish Plant is its star-shaped flowers, which give it its common name. These blooms are typically 5-9 cm (2-3.5 inches) in diameter and display a striking pattern of greenish-yellow or off-white with irregular or banded blotches of maroon, purple, or brown. The texture of the inner surface is often wrinkled or warty, adding to its unique appearance.
Scent: True to its other common name, Carrion Flower, the blooms emit a scent reminiscent of decaying meat. This odor serves as a powerful attractant for its natural pollinators, primarily flies. While noticeable up close, the smell is usually not overpowering in well-ventilated areas.
Pollination: The plant relies on fly pollination. The scent, color, and texture of the flowers mimic rotting flesh, luring flies that inadvertently transfer pollen as they investigate the bloom.
Fruit: Following successful pollination, Stapelia variegata produces twin, horn-shaped seed pods (follicles) that can grow up to 12 cm (5 inches) long. When mature and dry, these pods split open to release numerous small seeds, each attached to a silky parachute that aids in wind dispersal.
 
Habitat and Origin:
Stapelia variegata is native to the Western Cape province of South Africa.
It typically grows in rocky areas and on gentle slopes in arid and semi-arid regions, often found under the partial shade of bushes or in more open, sunny locations. It is adapted to well-drained, sandy soils.
 
Cultivation and Care:
Light: This succulent thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate some direct sun, especially in the morning or late afternoon, intense midday sun can cause the stems to scorch or develop reddish discoloration as a protective response. In hotter climates, some shade during the strongest part of the day is beneficial.
Soil: Excellent drainage is crucial for Stapelia variegata to prevent root rot. A specialized cactus and succulent potting mix is ideal, or you can create your own by amending regular potting soil with coarse sand, perlite, or pumice. Shallow pots are often preferred.
Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. The frequency of watering will depend on the temperature, humidity, and light levels. Reduce watering significantly during the cooler winter months when the plant is less active or dormant. Wrinkled stems can indicate a need for water, but overwatering is a more common issue than underwatering.
Temperature: Stapelia variegata prefers warm temperatures during its active growth period (spring and summer), ideally between 21-29°C (70-85°F). It has some mild frost tolerance but should be protected from freezing temperatures, ideally staying above 10°C (50°F).
Humidity: Average indoor humidity levels are generally sufficient.
Fertilizing: Feed lightly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., half-strength) every 4-6 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Potting: Repotting is typically needed every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space if the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot with adequate drainage holes.
Propagation: Easily propagated by stem cuttings. Allow the cut end to callous over for a few days until it forms a dry seal before planting it in well-draining soil. It can also be propagated from seed.
Flowering: Flowering usually occurs in late summer or autumn. Providing adequate light and a proper rest period can encourage blooming.
 
Considerations:
Scent: The carrion scent of the flowers can be off-putting to some, making it less suitable for enclosed indoor spaces unless well-ventilated.
Toxicity: The sap of Stapelia species is generally considered an irritant and can be mildly toxic if ingested, so it's advisable to handle the plant with care and keep it out of reach of pets and children.
Pests and Diseases: While relatively hardy, they can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and fungal issues like root rot, usually due to overwatering.
In conclusion, Stapelia variegata, the Starfish Plant, is a unique and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent that offers a truly extraordinary flowering display. Its striking, star-shaped blooms and intriguing pollination strategy make it a fascinating plant for collectors and those seeking something out of the ordinary.
 
 
* 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.