Stapelia Hirsuta (Steaua serifului)
Stapelia hirsuta, also known as the "carrion flower", is a succulent plant native to southern Africa. It is valued for its unusual flowers and ease of care, making it a popular choice for succulent collectors.
Stapelia hirsuta has fleshy, green stems that usually grow in a bushy form and can reach lengths of up to 20-30 cm. The stems are covered with a few thin hairs and have four edges. The leaves are practically nonexistent, a typical adaptation of succulents that conserve water.
The flowers are the most spectacular feature of this plant. They are large, usually 8-10 cm in diameter, and have a star-shaped appearance. The flower color ranges from yellowish-brown to reddish, with irregular patterns of spots and lines.
Care
Stapelia hirsuta is relatively easy to care for but requires some specific conditions:
- Light: Needs plenty of light but prefers indirect or filtered light to avoid sunburn.
- Watering: Like any succulent, it should be watered moderately. The soil must be well-drained and completely dry between waterings.
- Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures but is quite resilient and can tolerate temperature variations. However, it does not tolerate frost.
- Soil: A cactus or succulent soil mix is ideal, providing the necessary drainage.
Indicative height with pot included 15 cm
The plant is sold without flowers.