Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: Typical water needs for a succulent
Temperature: Zone 9a from 20° F to 25° F (-6.7 ° C to -3.9° C)
Winter Survival: Not cold hardy
Propagation: leaves, stem cuttings
Flower: In the Spring
Flower Type:
Toxic: Can be toxic to humans and animals
Dormant: winter
Space Requirement: Indoors & Outdoors
Common Problems: Plants may rot if overwatered, pests
Where to buy Stapelia Gigantea?
Basc Care for Stapelia Gigantea
Watering
Watering for Stapelia Gigantea is a simple task. It requires Typical water needs for a succulent.
Can you water your succulent more than what its need? The answer is yes and no. In extreme conditions, you can water your plants more often when you notice the soil is completely dry.
Fertilizing
Only feed this succulent during its active growing seasons which means spring and fall. Use the right fertilizer applied in the right amounts. Applying half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so is recommended for optimal results.
Do not fertilize during winter as the plant is dormant.
Sun & Location Requirements for "Zulu giant, Carrion Flower"
Stapelia Gigantea does best when placed in an area that receives full sun to partial shade throughout the day. This variety of succulents can tolerate direct sunlight for short periods, but if the temperatures get too high or the light is too intense it may be beneficial to find a shadier spot.
As per this succulent profile, it is only able to stay healthy when the environment temperature is above the range of zone 9a from 20° F to 25° F (-6.7 ° C to -3.9° C).
Stapelia Gigantea is not cold hardy and does not survive in freezing conditions. However, there are certain strategies that can be used to help the plant thrive despite the chill of winter. Proper drainage and insulation are essential for succulent X during periods of extreme cold. Placing a layer of mulch or gravel on the soil around the plant can also help keep it warm.
Any succulents in the group will need a medium space to grow. You can place your pot at your table or window. Since this plant needs more space than mini succulents, you should consider do not plant them together with other succulents/plants.
Propagation
Propagating succulents with leaves is a satisfying way to obtain new plants. Start by cutting some healthy leaves from the mother plant, then place them on top of potting mix and water regularly. In time you'll have vibrant succulents that you grew yourself!
One of the easiest and most popular ways to propagate Stapelia Gigantea is by stem cuttings. This method involves cutting a stem from an existing succulent and planting it in soil to grow a new plant.
Toxicity
The toxicity of Stapelia can vary depending on the individual species, but all species are potentially dangerous if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and dizziness. If you believe someone has ingested parts of Stapelia Gigantea, seek medical help immediately.
Pests and Diseases
Stapelia Gigantea can be affected common pests and diseases like most of the other succulents such as mealybugs, scale insects, and Red spider mites.
If you do spot any of pest signs, you can treat your succulent using below methods.
- Mealybugs: quarantine, clean infected plants, soapy water.
- Scale insects: quarantine, clean infected plants, soapy water.
- Red spider mites: Quarantine, clean your infected plants, treatment with a systemic insecticidal/soapy water.
Besides that, to prevent serious health issues from happening, keep your succulent in a well-ventilated area and check it regularly for any signs of pests or health problems.
