The Story
Plant Bio
Stapelia gigantea, commonly known as the Carrion Flower, is notable for its large, foul-smelling flowers which attract flies for pollination.
It features unique star-shaped flowers that can grow up to 12 inches in diameter, with a distinctive pattern and hairy texture.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
10 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Many years
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck cuttings or seeds into well-draining soil in spring.
- Mist soil lightly to keep it slightly moist during initial growth.
- Place in bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth.
- Water sparingly once established, avoiding overwatering.
- Fertilize monthly with a cactus-specific fertilizer during summer.
- Transplant carefully when roots are crowded, typically after 2 years.
Pro Tip
Use a gritty, well-draining soil mix and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide bright, indirect sunlight 🌞
- Use a cactus or succulent soil mix
- Water sparingly during active growth
- Apply cactus fertilizer monthly in summer
- Ensure good air circulation
Don't
- Overwater or let sit in water ❌
- Place in deep shade ❌
- Use heavy, clay soils ❌
- Neglect pest monitoring ❌
- Transplant during dormancy ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Carrion Flower questions
What zones can Carrion Flower grow in?
Carrion Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Carrion Flower deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Carrion Flower, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Carrion Flower bloom?
Carrion Flower typically blooms in late summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Carrion Flower need full sun?
Carrion Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Carrion Flower drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Carrion Flower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Carrion Flower with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.