Stapelia leendertziae (Carrion Flower)

Botanical & Common Names
- Botanical name: Stapelia leendertziae
- Common names: Carrion Flower

Background & Origin
Stapelia leendertziae, commonly known as the Carrion Flower, is a striking succulent native to southern Africa. It produces thick, fleshy, upright stems with a cactus-like appearance and a strong architectural form. In summer, it can produce large, star-shaped flowers with a deep maroon to purple colour and a distinctive scent that mimics decaying organic matter—an adaptation used to attract pollinating flies in its natural habitat. Despite its unusual aroma, it is highly prized by collectors for its dramatic blooms and sculptural growth.

Care Level
- Care level: Easy
- Suitable for beginners: Yes!

What It Loves
- Bright indirect sunlight with some morning or afternoon direct sun
- A consistent watering routine


What It Dislikes
- Overwatering or sitting in soggy soil
- Prolonged direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves

Best Rooms for This Plant
- Living rooms
- Bathroom
- Kitchens
- Bedrooms

Growth Potential
- Typical height indoors: Up 25 cm tall with time
- Typical spread: Up to 60 cm creeping spread
- Growth rate: Moderate
- Pruning required: Occasional, to deadhead flowers

Is This Plant Right for You?
This plant is a great choice if you:
- Love unusual and conversation-starting plants
- Enjoy rare succulents with bold, sculptural forms
- Are fascinated by unusual blooms and pollination strategies

Light
- Best light: Bright light with some direct morning or afternon sun
- Avoid: Dark corners

Watering
- Frequency: Water when the soil feels completely dry
- Seasonal note: Reduce watering in winter when growth slows. Always allow excess water to drain away to prevent root rot.

Humidity
- Prefers: No need for humidity
- Extra humidity helpful?: These plants prefer somewhere with no humidity

Feeding
- Feed with: A balanced houseplant fertiliser
- Frequency: Once a month during spring and summer. No feeding is needed during autumn and winter.

Toxicity
- Pet safe: No
- Notes: Keep out of reach of pets and small children

Repotting
- How often: Every 1-2 years
- Signs it’s needed: Roots growing out of the drainage holes, slower growth, or soil drying very quickly. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering.