Overview
Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br., also known as Carrion Flower or Starfish Flower, is a succulent plant species belonging to the family of Apocynaceae. This plant is native to South Africa and is known for its unique appearance and foul odor.
Appearance
The plant grows in clumps and has stems that can reach up to 30 cm in length. The stems are green with distinctive, raised white dots and are triangular in cross-section. The leaves are small, hardly noticeable and fall off quickly leaving brownish scars. The flowers of Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. are the most unusual aspect of the plant. They are 8 - 10 cm wide and resemble a starfish or a sea anemone with their wrinkled, fleshy petals that are brownish-red with round raised spots. The flowers bloom in the summer and have a strong carrion odor to attract pollinators such as flies and beetles.
Uses
The Carrion Flower is mainly grown as an ornamental plant as it adds a unique and intriguing appearance to any garden. The plant is low maintenance and does well in hot, dry climates making it easy to care for. The flowers, although pungent, are also used in perfumes and aromatherapy products as the scent is said to have grounding and calming effects on the mind and body.
Conclusion
Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. is a distinctive and unusual plant species native to South Africa that is mainly grown for its unique appearance and strong carrion scent. The fleshy leaves and wrinkled petals of the flower resemble a starfish and are a fascinating addition to any garden or collection of succulents.
Light requirements
Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. It can tolerate some direct sunlight exposure but needs protection from intense afternoon sunlight, which can cause leaf scorching.
Temperature requirements
The plant prefers warm and dry temperatures, typically thriving within a range of 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). It does not tolerate frost or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Soil requirements
Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. requires well-draining, sandy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.0). A cactus or succulent potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand can provide the necessary drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. is a succulent plant species that is grown for its unique, star-shaped flowers. The plant is native to South Africa and is relatively easy to cultivate as it can tolerate different growing conditions.
The plant prefers well-draining soil, which should be sandy or have some gravel and perlite mixed in. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. requires direct sunlight, but it should be provided for only a few hours a day.
The plant can be grown in containers or planted directly in the ground. In pots, the plant can be propagated through stem cuttings, which can be treated with rooting hormone before planting.
Watering Needs
Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. requires moderate watering, and the soil should be allowed to dry out between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
The plant should not be watered during the dormant period, which is during winter. During the growing season, the plant should be watered once a week, and the water should be allowed to drain out from the bottom of the pot.
Fertilization
Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. does not require frequent fertilization, but it should be fed some nutrients during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
The plant should be fed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once every month, and the fertilizer should be diluted before application. The plant should not be fertilized during the dormant period.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. as it does not grow tall and does not overgrow. However, if the plant becomes leggy or spindly, some pruning may be necessary.
To prune the plant, cut the stem with a clean, sharp knife at a node, which is where leaves or flowers emerge. The cut stem can be treated with rooting hormone and planted to propagate new plants.
Dead flowers should be removed to prevent fungal infections, and any dead or yellowing leaves should also be removed to maintain the plant's appearance.
Propagation of Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br.
Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. is a succulent plant that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly known as Carrion Flower due to the unpleasant odor it emits to attract flies for pollination. The plant is relatively easy to propagate by vegetative methods, including stem cuttings and offsets.
Propagation by stem cuttings
The most common way to propagate Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. is by stem cuttings. Choose a healthy stem that does not have any signs of disease or damage. Using a sharp and sterile cutting tool, cut a section of stem that is about 4-6 inches long. Allow the cutting to dry and callus over for a few days before planting. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it in a warm and bright location. Water sparingly until you see new growth, usually within a few weeks.
Propagation by offsets
Another way to propagate Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. is through the production of offsets. Offsets are tiny plants that grow from the base of the main mother plant. Carefully remove the offsets from the mother plant by cutting them off or gently pulling them away from the parent plant. Allow the offsets to dry and callus over for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil. Keep the newly planted offsets in a warm and bright location, and water sparingly until you see new growth.
Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br. is a fascinating plant that is relatively easy to propagate by vegetative methods. By using stem cuttings or offsets, you can quickly and efficiently propagate new plants without much difficulty.
Disease and Pest Management for Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br.
Stapelia surrecta N.E.Br., popularly known as the Carrion Plant, is a succulent plant that is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, some problems may arise, and it is essential to take prompt action to control them before they cause significant damage. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that may affect Stapelia surrecta is root rot. This disease is caused by overwatering, which leads to poor soil drainage and creates a favorable environment for fungi growth. To prevent this disease, ensure that the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged. You can also add some perlite or sand to the soil to improve drainage. Avoid getting water on the leaves and stems and only water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
Another disease that may affect Stapelia surrecta is black rot. This disease is caused by a bacterium that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It typically manifests as black spots that grow, coalesce, and eventually cause the affected tissue to rot. To manage black rot, remove any damaged or infected parts of the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves and stems. You can also apply a copper-based fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Stapelia surrecta is generally resistant to pests, but some may still infest the plant. Common pests that may affect this plant include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant's sap and produce white, cotton-like masses on the leaves and stems. To manage them, wipe the plant down with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck the plant's fluids, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To control them, wash the plant with a mixture of water and mild soap and rinse it thoroughly with clean water. You can also use neem oil or a commercially available miticide to manage the infestation.
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the plant's stems and leaves and feed on its sap. They secrete a protective shell that makes them difficult to control. To manage them, remove the insects with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or scrape them off with a toothbrush. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
Overall, preventing diseases and pests in Stapelia surrecta is primarily a matter of proper care, including appropriate watering, soil drainage, and monitoring the plant regularly for signs of infestation. By taking care of these basic needs, you can help your Carrion plant thrive and stay healthy.
