How to Grow Starfish Flower
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Starfish Flower
Stapelia leendertziae
succulentStapelia leendertziae is a low-growing succulent native to South Africa, known for its striking star-shaped flowers with intricate patterns and a distinctive carrion scent that attracts flies for pollination. The plant produces thick, angular stems and blooms in summer with burgundy and pale yellow mottled petals. It is a fascinating addition to succulent collections for its unique appearance and fascinating adaptation.
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Example Starfish Flower timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Starfish Flower
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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Harvest Starfish Flower
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10-11; grow indoors or in containers in cooler climates
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Get my Starfish Flower timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksYoung plant develops small, finger-like stems and establishes root system
Water sparingly until established; keep in bright indirect light; maintain warm temperatures (65-75°F); ensure excellent drainage
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsStems elongate and thicken; plant produces multiple new shoots forming a clustering habit
Allow soil to dry between waterings; provide bright light; maintain warmth; fertilize sparingly with diluted succulent fertilizer in growing season
Flowering Initiation
4-8 weeksStems mature and flower buds begin forming at the base or sides of mature stems
Ensure cool, slightly dry winter rest (50-60°F) to trigger blooming; reduce watering; provide bright light
Flowering
2-4 weeks per flower; continuous blooming possibleStar-shaped flowers with 5 petals emerge, displaying burgundy, cream, and mottled patterns; distinctive putrid smell attracts pollinators
Maintain warm temperatures; do not disturb flowers; provide good air circulation to prevent rot; the scent is intentional and indicates successful blooming
Post-Flowering & Seed Development
2-3 monthsFlowers fade and may produce seed pods; plant enters dormancy or slower growth phase
Allow spent flowers to dry and fall naturally; reduce watering; provide cooler rest period; collect seed if desired for propagation
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity slightly; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; ensure good air circulation
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with neem oil; isolate infected plant
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Manually remove or treat with horticultural oil; repeat treatments every 7-10 days as needed
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Improve drainage; reduce watering frequency; allow soil to dry completely between waterings; repot in fresh soil if severe
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Remove affected stems with clean knife; allow cut to callus; improve air circulation and drainage; reduce humidity
Uses
Not typically edible
CulinaryStapelia leendertziae is not a culinary plant and should not be consumed. It is grown exclusively for ornamental and botanical interest. [source]
Unique houseplant and collector's specimen
CraftPrized by succulent collectors and plant enthusiasts for its remarkable star-shaped flowers and distinctive carrion scent mechanism. Makes an excellent conversation piece in container gardens and indoor plant collections. [source]
Low-maintenance indoor decoration
HouseholdIdeal for bright windowsills, shelves, and succulent arrangements requiring minimal water and care. Perfect for busy plant parents or beginners transitioning to succulents. [source]
Pollinator attraction through sapromyophily
WildlifeThe distinctive carrion scent attracts flies and other insects that typically pollinate rotting organic matter, demonstrating a fascinating evolutionary adaptation. Observing the pollination process is educational and remarkable. [source]
Botanical research subject
MedicinalWhile not widely used in traditional medicine, Stapelia species are studied for their unique biochemistry and specialized pollination mechanisms, contributing to botanical and ecological understanding. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Stapelia leendertziae is not harvested but rather enjoyed for its ornamental flowers. Allow flowers to bloom naturally and fall on their own. To collect seeds, wait for seed pods to mature and dry; seeds can be sown on well-draining succulent mix. For propagation, remove healthy stem cuttings, allow to callus for 1-2 weeks, then place on dry soil.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The distinctive putrid smell of Stapelia leendertziae flowers mimics rotting flesh, earning it the common name 'Starfish Flower.' This scent is so convincing that it attracts carrion flies, which pollinate the flowers while searching for a place to lay their eggs.
- 🌱 Stapelia flowers produce copious amounts of nectar and have elaborate patterns and textures that resemble decomposing meat under magnification, creating a multi-sensory deception to lure pollinators.
- 🌱 The genus Stapelia is named after the 16th-century Dutch botanist Johannes Bodaeus van Stapel, and includes over 40 species, many with equally remarkable and foul-smelling flowers adapted to their native South African ecosystems.
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