Stapelia gigantea
Best low-maintenance succulent for pet owners seeking unique, dramatic floral displays.
Discover the Stapelia gigantea, a unique succulent native to South Africa, also known as the Giant Carrion Flower or Starfish Flower. This plant is renowned for its impressively large, star-shaped blooms that emit a strong, distinctive odor to attract pollinators. It thrives in bright light, preferring full sun for optimal flowering but tolerating partial shade. Its drought-tolerant nature means it requires infrequent watering, allowing the soil to dry out completely between sessions to prevent root rot. Ideal for USDA Zones 9-11 outdoors or as a striking indoor specimen, it's also a pet-safe choice.
$28.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
141
/ 9214
#141 in Potted Houseplants
Price vs Category Average
-46%
Below average
Scientific Name
Stapelia gigantea
/ Stapelia gigantea
Who it's for
- Propagators looking to expand their plant collection easily
- Collectors seeking a striking, sculptural centerpiece
- Busy plant owners needing low-maintenance greenery
Who should skip it
- Beginners prone to overwatering or living in cold climates
- Indoor gardeners sensitive to strong, unpleasant scents
- Apartment dwellers with limited horizontal shelf space
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Massive, star-shaped blooms create an unforgettable focal point for any room.
Maintenance Ease
Drought-tolerant nature makes this an ideal choice for busy plant owners.
Pet Safety
Non-toxic profile ensures peace of mind for households with curious pets.
Fragrance Intensity
Distinctive, pungent scent is highly effective at attracting natural pollinators.
Light Requirements
Demands significant direct sun to reach its full flowering potential.
Growth Pace
Slow development requires patience but rewards with structural, architectural beauty.
Key Specs
Scientific Name
Stapelia gigantea
Common Names
Giant Carrion Flower, Starfish Flower
Native Region
South Africa
Hardiness Zone
USDA 9-11
Light Requirement
Full sun (minimum 6 hours direct light)
Watering
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings
Soil Type
Cactus or succulent mix (well-draining)
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets
Features
- Produces exceptionally large, star-shaped flowers
- Unique, strong odor attracts pollinators
- Pet-safe and non-toxic
- Drought-tolerant with low watering needs
- Easy care level
- Suitable for indoor or warm outdoor growing
- Thrives in bright light conditions
- Slow growth rate
What customers say
Buyers consistently praise the exceptional quality and robust health of this specimen upon arrival. Reviewers frequently note the careful packaging ensures the plant reaches them in pristine condition, often larger than expected. Its unique, striking appearance and impressive size are major selling points, making this a standout addition to any collection. Customers feel this plant offers excellent value, delivering a healthy, mature specimen that quickly begins to thrive in its new environment.
Know before you buy
Yes, the flowers emit a distinct, pungent scent designed to attract pollinators in nature. While it is quite noticeable when the plant is in bloom, it is generally only an issue if the plant is kept in a small, poorly ventilated room.
To encourage flowering, this plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While it can tolerate partial shade, it will likely struggle to produce its signature star-shaped blooms without sufficient light.
Yes, the Stapelia gigantea is non-toxic to pets. It is a great choice for households with animals, though its succulent stems are still best kept out of reach to prevent accidental damage to the plant.
This plant is highly drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out completely between waterings. In most indoor environments, you should only water when the soil is bone-dry to the touch to avoid the risk of root rot.
You should use a high-quality cactus or succulent potting mix. These blends are specifically formulated to be well-draining, which is essential for keeping the root system healthy.
It is only suitable for year-round outdoor growing in USDA Zones 9-11. If you live in a climate that experiences frost or freezing temperatures, you must bring the plant indoors during the colder months.
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$28