The Encyclopedia of House Plants

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Stapelia

Family: Asclepiadaceae.

Stapelia mutabilis Common name(s): Carrion flower
Stapelia Genus of about 45 species of perennial succulents from low, hilly, often rocky terrain, mainly in tropical and southern Africa. All Stapelias have spectagular flowers. The most popular type is Stapelia variegata. Unfortunately it is a strong-smelling species.
Growing conditions Watering and misting Propagation
Average warmth from spring to autumn - minimum 50F in winter.Semi-shade or bright light. Some shade in summer may be necessary. Keep compost moist at all time. In winter water very infrequently, once every 1-2 months. No need to mist the leaves. Cuttings root easily. Take stem cuttings, offsets in spring or summer. It is vital to let the cuttings dry for a few days before inserting in compost. Water very sparingly and do not cover with polythene or glass. Another propagation method is seed sowing in spring - germination temperature 70-80 F.

User-submitted additions and corrections:

Cathy
Nebraska, USA
3rd Mar 2010
I have a similar plant, but the bloom is different. The stem/leaf looks the same, but the flower is not on a stem, it seems to be attached to the side of the stem. Bloom is solid color, deep burgundy.
Kathleen
Québec
4th Jun 2010
The variety pictured doesn't have as strong an odor as some of the others; I've had one.
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