Stapelia erectiflora

Scientific Name

Stapelia erectiflora N.E. Br.

Synonym(s)

Stapelia erectiflora var. erectiflora, Gonostemon erectiflorus

Scientific Classification

Family: Apocynaceae
Subfamily: Asclepiadoideae
Tribe: Stapeliae
Genus: Stapelia

Description

Stapelia erectiflora is a clump-forming succulent that grows up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall. Stems are shortly decumbent, 4-ribbed, and have small conspicuous teeth. The rudimentary leaves are erect, pubescent, and easily detached. Flowers are borne on up to 5 inches (12.5 cm) long stem. They are up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) across, brownish-green to purplish, with transverse stripes and short white hair.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 10b to 11b: from 35 °F (+1.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Several species are fairly easy to grow. Others, often those with slightly hairy stems and the more unusual flowers, are more challenging and require careful watering (with some fertilizer) during the growing season and complete water withdrawal during the winter months. A minimum winter temperature of 10°C (50°F) is acceptable, providing that plants are kept dry. A heated growing bench or incubator may help delicate plants to get through the colder months. However, many species live under shrubs in their habitat and prefer light shade rather than full sun.

A gritty succulent soil mix is essential, and clay pots are advisable for the more delicate species. Some growers prefer mineral-only soil to minimize the chance of a fungal attack on the roots. A layer of grit on the soil's surface prevents moisture from accumulating around the base of stems.

Keeping Stapelias and their roots free of pests such as mealybugs is the real key to success as fungal attack often occurs due to damage to stems by insects.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Stapelia.

Origin

This species is native to South Africa (Western Cape and Northern Cape).

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