How to Grow Crown of Bohemia
Wikimedia Commons
Crown of Bohemia
Stapelia regalis
flowerCrown of Bohemia is a striking succulent flowering plant known for its large, star-shaped flowers with intricate patterns and deep maroon coloring. Native to South Africa, it produces dramatic blooms that can reach 4-6 inches across with a distinctive velvet texture. The plant forms low-growing clusters of angular, leafless stems and produces flowers with a fleshy, almost alien appearance.
When should you plant Crown of Bohemia in your zone?
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Example Crown of Bohemia timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Crown of Bohemia
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Crown of Bohemia blooms
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10-11; best grown indoors or in containers in cooler climates
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Get my Crown of Bohemia timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-8 weeksYoung plant develops angular, upright stems with minimal leaf material. Growth is slow and compact.
Keep soil barely moist; provide bright light. Avoid fertilizing newly planted material for 4-6 weeks.
Vegetative Growth
2-3 monthsStems elongate and branch, forming clustered rosettes. The plant gradually fills out its container or space.
Water moderately during warm months when soil is dry 1-2 inches deep. Provide bright light. Minimal fertilizer needed.
Bud Formation
3-4 weeksSmall buds appear along the stem joints, typically in late summer or early fall. Buds are initially greenish and tightly closed.
Maintain bright light and continue moderate watering. Do not disturb the plant. Ensure good air circulation.
Flowering
4-8 weeks (sequential blooming)Large, star-shaped flowers with 5 petals unfold, displaying deep maroon to burgundy coloring with pale veining and textured, velvety surfaces. Blooms last 1-2 weeks each.
Maintain bright light and consistent (but not wet) soil moisture. Do not move the plant. Allow pollinating insects access if outdoors.
Post-Bloom & Dormancy
3-4 months (winter dormancy)Flowers fade and drop. Plant enters dormant phase, with minimal growth and yellowing or decline of older stems.
Reduce watering to once per month or less. Provide cool temperatures (50-60°F if possible). Maintain bright light. Remove dead stems carefully.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; isolate affected plant; inspect regularly. Remove pests with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab.
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Increase humidity around the plant; spray with water or neem oil. Isolate from other plants.
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Remove by hand; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Inspect stems and leaf axils regularly.
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Improve drainage immediately; allow soil to dry completely. Repot in fresh, dry soil if stems show black or soft spots.
Uses
Exotic Houseplant Display
OrnamentalCrown of Bohemia is prized as a striking indoor succulent specimen, producing unusual star-shaped flowers with deep maroon coloring and velvety texture. Its dramatic, alien-like blooms make it a conversation piece for collectors of rare houseplants. [source]
Botanical Collecting & Cultivation
CraftEnthusiasts cultivate Crown of Bohemia as part of succulent or rare plant collections, appreciating its unusual morphology and challenging but rewarding bloom requirements. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe star-shaped flowers attract flies and other insects that pollinate in its native habitat. Growing it outdoors during bloom season supports native pollinators. [source]
Harvest Tips
Crown of Bohemia is grown for ornamental flowers rather than harvest. Flowers typically bloom in late summer through fall. Allow flowers to remain on the plant where they naturally drop after blooming (1-2 weeks). Collect seeds from dried flower pods if desired for propagation. Stems can be gently harvested for propagation year-round, but best in spring after dormancy.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Crown of Bohemia produces a faint carrion-like scent to attract flies as pollinators, mimicking decomposing flesh in its natural African habitat.
- 🌱 The plant is named 'Crown' for its regal, star-shaped flowers that resemble a crown when fully open; 'Bohemia' likely refers to the exotic, bohemian appeal of the striking blooms.
- 🌱 Unlike most flowering succulents, Crown of Bohemia requires a cool dormant period in winter to trigger reliable flowering in the following year—a challenge that makes successful blooming a badge of honor among collectors.
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