Plant Description
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. x Orbeopsis caudata (N.E.Br.) L.C.Leach, commonly known as the carrion flower, is a succulent plant species that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. This plant is native to Southern Africa, particularly in the Namib Desert region.
General Appearance
The carrion flower is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1 foot tall, and its stems can reach up to 10 inches in diameter. This plant's unique, star-shaped flowers, which are sometimes striped or hairy, can grow up to 12 inches in length and have a foul odor, similar to rotting meat, to attract flies for pollination. The petals are fleshy and slightly wrinkled and typically range in color from light green to brown.
Common Names
The carrion flower is commonly known by several other names like Zulu giant, toad plant, and giant stapelia. The latter name is due to its plant genus, Stapelia.
Uses
Although the carrion flower has no known medicinal value, it is popularly grown as an ornamental plant because of its unique and unusual flowers. In some traditional African cultures, the carrion flower was used as a charm against lightning strikes. Additionally, some people believe carrion flower can repel insects because of the odor it releases.
Growth Conditions of Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. x Orbeopsis caudata (N.E.Br.) L.C.Leach
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. x Orbeopsis caudata (N.E.Br.) L.C.Leach is a succulent plant that requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Here are some of the critical factors that promote the healthy growth of this plant:
Light
This plant requires bright but indirect sunlight to grow well. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves and cause irreparable damage to the plant. It is best to place it near a window that allows enough light but filters out the hot sun rays. You can also use fluorescent lights if you don't have access to natural light.
Temperature
The typical temperature range for this plant is between 10°C to 35°C. It needs a warm environment to grow but is relatively tolerant of fluctuations in temperature. However, it is essential to avoid any sudden temperature changes, such as placing the plant near air conditioning or heating vents.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. x Orbeopsis caudata (N.E.Br.) L.C.Leach needs to be well-draining and porous. The plant prefers a mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss that allows for proper drainage. The soil should also be slightly acidic, pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.
It is essential to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch. During the growing season, water it once a week; in winter, reduce the watering frequency to once every three weeks.
By providing these growth conditions, you can ensure that Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. x Orbeopsis caudata (N.E.Br.) L.C.Leach thrives. With proper care, it can produce beautiful flowers that offer a unique, attractive look to your garden or home.
Cultivation Methods
The plant Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. x Orbeopsis caudata (N.E.Br.) L.C.Leach, commonly known as Carion flower, is a fascinating succulent plant that is easy to cultivate. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, but it thrives better in warm and dry environments. The plant produces unique star-shaped flowers with a foul odor that attracts flies to pollinate it.
To cultivate the Carion flower, plant it in well-draining soil with a pH level of about 6.5. Ensure that the soil is not too wet, as the plant is susceptible to root rot. The plant will do well in a clay pot, and it is necessary to leave enough space for the roots to grow.
Watering Needs
While the Carion flower is a succulent plant that can store water in its leaves, it still needs to be watered occasionally. Water the plant sparingly, once or twice a month, depending on the weather and soil moisture levels. Ensure the soil has dried out completely before watering again.
Overwatering will cause the plant to rot, while underwatering will lead to the plant drying out. It is crucial to find a balance when watering the Carion flower.
Fertilization
It is necessary to fertilize the Carion flower to ensure it grows well. Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season, from early spring to early autumn. Ensure not to overfertilize, as this will damage the plant. Always follow the instructions on the label and dilute the fertilizer before applying it.
Pruning
Pruning the Carion flower is not necessary, but you can remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems to improve its appearance. The plant can attract a lot of attention, making it necessary to control its growth if it gets too close to walkways or other plants.
When pruning, always use clean, sharp tools to avoid transferring diseases from one plant to another. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the plant's milky sap, which can cause skin irritation.
Propagation methods for Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. x Orbeopsis caudata (N.E.Br.) L.C.Leach
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. x Orbeopsis caudata (N.E.Br.) L.C.Leach, commonly known as Giant Starfish Flower, is a succulent plant species that is commonly propagated vegetatively. The following are the different methods of propagation that can be employed for this plant:
Propagation by stem cuttings
This is the most common method of propagation for the Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. x Orbeopsis caudata (N.E.Br.) L.C.Leach plant. To propagate through stem cuttings, select stem cuttings that are about 3 to 4 inches long, mature, healthy, and have a few nodes. Remove the lower leaves and let the cutting dry for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and provide sufficient light for the cuttings to root and grow.
Propagation by leaf cuttings
Leaf cuttings can also be used to propagate the Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. x Orbeopsis caudata (N.E.Br.) L.C.Leach plant. Take a mature and healthy leaf and cut it into small pieces of about 1 to 2 inches each. Dust the ends of the cuttings with rooting hormone and let them dry for a few days. Plant the cuttings in well-draining soil and provide adequate light and moisture for successful propagation.
Propagation by division
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. x Orbeopsis caudata (N.E.Br.) L.C.Leach can also be propagated by division. For this method, remove the mature plant from its container and gently separate the offsets from the main plant. Plant the offsets in well-draining soil and provide them with the necessary moisture and light. It is advisable to wait for a few days to water the offsets to prevent root rot.
Propagation of the Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. x Orbeopsis caudata (N.E.Br.) L.C.Leach plant is relatively easy and straightforward, provided the right conditions such as light, soil, and moisture are maintained. It is essential to propagate the plant during the active growing season for better success rates.
Disease Management
Stapelia gigantea and Orbeopsis caudata are both succulent plants that are resistant to many diseases. However, some fungal diseases may still occur if the plants are overwatered or if they are subjected to very humid conditions. One of the most common fungal diseases affecting these plants is black spot. It manifests as dark, irregular spots on the plant’s stems and leaves. To manage black spot, it is important to reduce humidity levels around the plant and avoid splashing water on the leaves. Fungicidal sprays may also be used to control the infection.
In addition to fungal diseases, bacterial infections may also affect these plants, especially if they are injured or damaged. The bacteria may enter through the wounds and cause rotting of the plant tissues. To manage bacterial infections, it is important to keep the plant healthy and avoid injuring it. Infected parts of the plant should be removed and destroyed to avoid further spread.
Pest Management
Stapelia gigantea and Orbeopsis caudata are not commonly attacked by pests. However, some insects may occasionally infest these plants. One of the most common pests of these plants is mealybugs. These insects feed on the sap of the plant and produce fluffy white wax that covers their bodies. To manage mealybugs, it is important to routinely check the plant for infestations, especially on the parts where mealybugs commonly hide, such as leaf axils and stem crevices. Infested plants should be isolated to prevent further spread, and the insects can be removed manually or with the use of insecticides.
Another pest that may affect these plants is spider mites. These tiny insects may be difficult to see without a magnifying glass, but their webs are often evident on the affected plant parts. Spider mites suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, it is important to increase humidity levels around the plant and avoid over-fertilizing. Insecticidal sprays may also be used to control the infestation.
