Origin
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa, specifically in the regions of Namibia and Botswana. This plant grows best in hot and arid conditions and is commonly found in dry and sandy soils.
Common Names
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. is known by several common names such as Carrion Flower, Zulu Giant, Starfish Flower, and Giant Toad flower. The name Carrion Flower comes from the plant's unique odor, which smells like rotting flesh, attracting flies for pollination.
Uses
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and large, showy flowers. The plant is popularly grown in gardens, rockeries, and containers. It is said to have medicinal properties and may be used to treat various ailments in traditional remedies.
General Appearance
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. is a low-growing, stemless succulent that can grow up to 60 cm in height and spread up to 1m in width. The plant has thick, succulent stems and dark green leaves that are triangle-shaped and arranged in opposite pairs. The plant produces large, starfish-shaped flowers that can grow up to 40 cm in diameter. The flowers are typically yellow-orange with maroon or brown markings and have a distinctive smell of rotting meat.
Light Requirements
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. thrives in bright, indirect light. It is important to avoid exposing the plant to harsh, direct sunlight, which can cause the stems to become sunburned. Placing the plant near a south or west-facing window is ideal, as it can receive sufficient light without being directly exposed to the hot sun.
Temperature Requirements
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. is a heat-loving plant that grows best in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 21°C to 32°C. It cannot tolerate frost or extreme cool temperatures, so it should be kept away from cold drafts and chilly windowsills.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. should be well-draining and fertile. A mix of cactus soil and coarse sand can be used to achieve the perfect balance. The soil must be able to retain some moisture without becoming waterlogged since excess water can cause root rot and other diseases in the plant. It is essential to plant the plant in a pot with drainage holes so that excess water can easily drain away.
Cultivation
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. is commonly referred to as giant toad or carrion plant and is a succulent perennial plant that grows well in a sunny position. To cultivate this plant, you will need well-draining soil, a pot, and a sunny location.
The plant can grow to up to 2 feet in height and 1.6 feet in width, so the pot you choose should be large enough to accommodate its growth. Ideally, the soil should be sandy or gravelly, and you can add some pumice to make it more porous.
It is essential to avoid overwatering, as this plant is susceptible to root rot. The best way to avoid overwatering is to ensure that the soil is dry before watering.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial for the growth of Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. Ideally, you should wait until the soil is completely dry before watering the plant again. The frequency of watering will depend on factors such as the temperature, humidity, and exposure to sunlight.
During the summer months, when the plant is actively growing, you may need to water it every two to three weeks. However, during the winter months, when the plant is dormant, you can reduce the frequency of watering to once a month.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not mandatory for the growth of Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. However, if you choose to fertilize the plant, you can use a succulent fertilizer. Ideally, you should apply the fertilizer during the growing season, which is in the summer months.
It is essential to use a low-nitrogen fertilizer, as too much nitrogen can cause the plant to grow too quickly and become weak. Nitrogen is beneficial for the growth of leaves, but it should be used sparingly.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. However, it is advisable to remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant to prevent the spread of disease.
You may also choose to prune the plant to control its size, but this should be done with caution, as the plant is sensitive to pruning. When pruning, ensure that you use sterilized tools to prevent infection.
Propagation of Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br.
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br., commonly known as the carrion flower or starfish flower, can be propagated from both seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
To propagate Stapelia gigantea from seeds, collect the seeds from the ripened fruit pods and allow them to dry completely. Sow the seeds in well-drained soil mix and keep them moist. The ideal temperature range for germination is between 20°C-25°C. Germination can take up to four weeks, and it may take up to two years for the plant to reach maturity.
Propagation by stem cutting
Propagation by stem cuttings is a more straightforward and quicker method. Take a cutting that has two or three nodes and allow it to dry for a few days in a shaded place. Once the cut end has dried, dip it in hormone rooting powder and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Water it thoroughly, and then place it in a shady area. Avoid direct sunlight for the newly planted cutting.
Ensure that the cutting is watered regularly but not overwatered as this can cause rotting. The cutting should take root in about two to three weeks and should be ready to transplant in about a month.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br.
Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br., commonly known as the African Starfish Flower, is a succulent plant known for its unique star-shaped flowers. Despite being a hardy plant, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal Infections: Fungal infections such as root rot and leaf spot can occur if the plant is overwatered or exposed to too much moisture. To manage these infections, it is essential to improve drainage and reduce watering frequency. Allow the soil to dry between watering, and avoid getting water on the leaves and stem of the plant. Fungicides may be applied topically, but it is best to prevent fungal infections before they occur.
Bacterial Infections: Bacterial infections can cause wilting and decay of stem and leaves. To manage these infections, it is important to sterilize the soil and pots before planting new specimens. Avoid overwatering and water only from underneath the plant to prevent water from splashing on the leaves. Use copper fungicides to treat bacteria if it occurs.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are one of the most common pests that affect Stapelia gigantea. They feed on the plant's sap and leaves, causing stunted growth and yellowing. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe off the pests. Repeat this process every few days until the infestation is gone.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause webbing on the plant's leaves and cause it to yellow and wilt. To manage spider mites, use a hose to spray the plant’s leaves to dislodge the pests. Introduce beneficial predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, to control the population
Cactus Bugs: Cactus bugs are tiny insects that feed on the plant’s sap and cause the leaves to curl and discolor. To manage these pests, use a vacuum cleaner to remove the bugs gently. Introduce predatory insects such as nematodes, assassin bugs, or lacewings to manage the population.
In conclusion, managing pests and diseases in Stapelia gigantea N.E.Br. is essential to maintain its health and keep it thriving. Regular inspection can detect issues early and prevent spread. Integrated pest management techniques are a safer and more effective way to manage pests compared to pesticides alone.
