Zulu Giant (Stapelia gigantea) | plant

• Latin name: Stapelia gigantea
• Danish names: Kæmpe ordensstjerne
• English names: Zulu giant, carrion plant, toad plant

Stapelia gigantea (Zulu giant) is a spectacular succulent from southern Africa, known for its enormous star-shaped flowers. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is related to several other “carrion flowers” famous for their bizarre and dramatic blooms.

Appearance and growth

The plant consists of fleshy, green, four-sided stems that resemble small cacti, but without thorns. When the plant blooms, it develops gigantic flowers up to 30–40 cm in diameter – among the largest in the plant kingdom. The flowers are star-shaped, covered in fine hairs, and marked with beautiful yellow and reddish veins. To attract pollinators, the flowers emit a distinctive odor reminiscent of rotting meat – a typical strategy in this plant family.

Usage

Stapelia gigantea is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its unique shape and spectacular flowering. It is a popular collector's plant among succulent and cactus enthusiasts, and it is also well-suited as a conversation piece in any exotic plant collection.

Cultivation and care

• Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. The more light, the more vigorous the growth and flowering.
• Temperature: Thrives best in warm temperatures (20–30 °C). Cannot tolerate frost.
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy cactus soil.
• Watering: Water sparingly – let the soil dry out well between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
• Fertilizer: Use a cactus/succulent fertilizer during the growing season to support flowering.
• Overwintering: Should be kept in a bright, cool place (minimum 10 °C) during the winter months with minimal watering.

Stapelia gigantea is an unforgettable plant with a dramatic appearance and some of the largest flowers one can experience on a succulent. Perfect for the curious collector who wants an exotic and conversation-starting plant in their collection.

- Also available as seeds

Note: The pictures are intended as examples of the plant and do not necessarily represent the exact plant being purchased.