Carrion Flower
For the gardener who wants to try growing something unusual, carrion flower (Stapelia gigantea) is a cactus-like succulent that certainly fits the bill.
The plant has squared-off, spineless stems that grow to form a clump. Each winter, carrion flower blooms with starfish-shaped flowers that can be ten inches across. They’re typically a mottled red, yellow, brown or purple.
The flowers are eye-catching, but it’s their fragrance that truly catches your attention. That’s because they smell like rotting meat. But people find that the beauty of the flowers far outweighs their unusual smell. The flower stems tend to bend back to the ground, providing interest to a groundcover bed or raised planter.
It’s best to grow this tender plant as a houseplant or in a container that can be moved to a protected location when cold weather strikes. Hardy only in zones 10-11, carrion flower should only be planted outside in frost-free areas. Grow your plant in a coarse, well-drained sand mix in light shade. In full sun, the stems turn a bronze color.
Plants should remain dry during the winter and have only moderate water during the summer. Let the soil dry out in between waterings and make sure your containers aren’t holding water; as with most succulent, soggy soil will cause problems like root rot. Scale, mealy bugs and mites may cause problems.
You can propagate carrion flower by dividing the clumps or with stem cuttings.
For more information about growing carrion flower and other plants, contact your county Extension office.
