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Orbea variegata (Carrion Flower)

Carrion Cactus, Carrion Flower, Starfish Cactus, Starfish Flower, Toad Cactus, Toad Plant, Toad Spotted Cactus, Ceropegia mixta, Stapelia variegata, Stisseria variegata

AGM Award
orbea variegata, carrion flower, starfish plant, stapelia variegata, hanging succulent, succulent plants

Orbea variegata, commonly known as the Carrion Flower or Starfish Plant, is a captivating succulent plant admired for its uniquely patterned flowers and low-maintenance growth habit. This small, sprawling plant is popular among succulent gardeners for its ease of care, ability to tolerate dry conditions, and unusual, show-stopping blooms that resemble a starfish.

Orbea variegata is a member of the Apocynaceae family, which includes other fascinating plants such as PachypodiumAdenium (Desert Rose), Plumeria (Frangipani), and Hoya (Wax Plant)


Description

Orbea variegata is a low-growing, mat-forming succulent with trailing, greenish stems occasionally tinged with purple or red. These stems are square-shaped in cross-section and have small teeth along the edges. The plant grows in a sprawling manner, making it ideal for ground cover in rock gardens or as an attractive feature in hanging baskets.

The most captivating feature of this carrion flower is undoubtedly its star-shaped flowers, which can range in color from yellowish-green to cream, often speckled with maroon or purple spots. Each flower has five broad, pointed petals and is approximately 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in diameter. Despite their beauty, the flowers emit a distinctive odor of rotting flesh, which helps attract flies, their primary pollinators.


Native Habitat

Orbea variegata is native to the coastal regions of South Africa, where it thrives in dry, sandy, and rocky soils. It is well-adapted to hot, arid environments and can tolerate significant periods of drought. In its native habitat, this succulent plant often grows in crevices or rocky slopes where its creeping stems spread over the ground.


Plant Type and Habit

Orbea variegata is a fast-growing, perennial succulent with a sprawling growth habit. Its trailing stems spread along the ground, making it an excellent choice for covering bare spots in a succulent garden or cascading over the edge of a container. The plant typically forms a compact, low-growing mat, reaching heights of just a few inches.


Plant Size

This trailing succulent grows up to 4 inches (10 cm) tall and can spread up to 12-20 inches (30-50 cm) across, depending on growing conditions and how it is pruned.


Flowers

The striking star-shaped flowers are the plant’s most defining feature. These unusual blooms measure approximately 2-2.5 inches (5-8 cm) in diameter and are typically cream or yellow with maroon or purple spots. The flowers have a fleshy texture, and their five pointed lobes give them a starfish-like appearance, making them a focal point in any garden.

While beautiful, the flowers emit a strong odor reminiscent of decaying meat. This smell attracts flies, which act as the primary pollinators.

The flowers generally bloom from late summer to early fall, adding an exotic and unexpected touch to succulent gardens.

orbea variegata, carrion flower, starfish plant, stapelia variegata, hanging succulent, succulent plants

Once pollinated, this succulent plant produces cylindrical follicles about 5 inches long (12.5 cm), dark green mottled with pale green, tapering to a blunt point. They dry, split open, and release wind-dispersed seeds tufted with silky hairs at maturity.


Foliage

The stems are four-angled and fleshy. Their coloration is typically green, sometimes with hints of purple when exposed to full sun. They are smooth but can develop small tubercles along their edges.


Award

Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.


Hardiness

This carrion flower thrives in USDA zones 9-11, allowing it to be grown outdoors year-round in warmer climates. In colder areas, it must be brought indoors during winter as it is not frost-tolerant and can be damaged by freezing temperatures. This drought-tolerant plant is often used as a houseplant in colder climates.

The ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 80°F (16°C and 27°C). While it can tolerate short periods of cooler temperatures, it thrives in warm, dry conditions and should be protected from frost.


Uses

Orbea variegata is a popular choice for succulent gardeners and can be used in various gardening styles, including:

  • Container gardening: Due to its trailing habit, it works well in hanging baskets or shallow containers.
  • Rock gardens: Its drought-tolerant nature makes it an ideal candidate for rock gardens and xeriscaping.
  • Groundcover: It spreads slowly but steadily, covering bare patches in sunny, well-drained areas.

Its unique flowers and ability to thrive in poor, dry soils make it a fantastic addition to succulent collections and specialized desert or Mediterranean-style gardens.


Wildlife

The distinctive odor of carrion flowers actively attracts flies, which play a vital role in pollination. These flies, drawn to the flower’s scent, mistake it for decomposing organic matter. As they investigate, they transfer pollen from flower to flower, facilitating successful pollination and ensuring the plant’s reproduction.


Toxicity

Limited information exists on the toxicity of Orbea variegata. However, as a member of the Apocynaceae family, which includes plants known for toxic compounds, it’s important to exercise caution around animals. Similar species within this family contain harmful substances, and potential risks cannot be ruled out entirely.


Drought Tolerance

As a succulent, this carrion flower is highly drought-tolerant. Its fleshy leaves and stems store water, allowing the plant to survive extended periods of dry conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for water-wise gardens and xeriscaping.


Invasiveness

Orbea variegata, introduced to Australia as a hardy, low-maintenance ornamental plant, has become widely cultivated. However, it has escaped cultivation and naturalized in semi-arid and arid regions of Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales, and Queensland. It is invasive in South Australia, threatening native chenopod and saltbush/bluebush vegetation communities.


Benefits

  • Ornamental value: The plant’s unusual flowers and sprawling habit make it a striking addition to any garden.
  • Drought tolerance: As a succulent, it requires minimal watering and thrives in arid conditions.

orbea variegata, carrion flower, starfish plant, stapelia variegata, hanging succulent, succulent plants


Carrion Flower Care

Light Requirements

This succulent prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright, direct sunlight but can tolerate some light shade, especially in the hottest parts of the day. Indoors, place it near a sunny window.

Watering

Like most succulents, this carrion flower prefers the soak-and-dry method. Water thoroughly, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. During the growing season (spring and summer), water every 1-2 weeks, depending on the weather. In the winter, reduce watering significantly, as the plant becomes dormant. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Soil

Use a well-draining acidic, cactus or succulent mix. You can improve drainage by adding extra perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to the potting mix.

Temperature

The plant thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (16°C and 27°C). If grown outdoors, bring the plant indoors when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Fertilizer

During the growing season, apply a diluted, balanced succulent fertilizer once a month. Avoid fertilizing in the winter months.

Repotting

Repot Orbea variegata every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container. This gives it fresh soil and more space to spread its stems.

Pruning

Pruning involves removing any dead or damaged stems to encourage new growth and maintain the plant’s overall shape. Use sterilized pruning shears to avoid infection. Pruning is typically minimal and should be done only when necessary to prevent overcrowding or to remove unhealthy parts.

Propagation

This succulent plant can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem, let it dry for a day or two to callous over, then plant it in well-draining soil. Water lightly after a week, and roots should begin to form in a few weeks.

Pests and Diseases

This carrion flower is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally attract mealybugs or scale insects. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.

Common Mistakes

  • Overwatering: The most common issue with Orbea variegata is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings.
  • Lack of Sunlight: This plant thrives in bright light. If it is grown in too much shade, it may become leggy and fail to bloom.
  • Cold Exposure: Orbea variegata is not frost-tolerant. Always bring it indoors or protect it from cold temperatures in cooler climates.

The Complete Guide To Succulent Care

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Orbea variegata a cactus?

No, Orbea variegata is not a cactus; it is a succulent. While both cacti and succulents store water in their tissues, Orbea variegata belongs to the Apocynaceae family, whereas cacti belong to the Cactaceae family. It is often referred to as a “carrion flower” because of its distinct star-shaped, patterned flowers.

How do you take care of Orbea variegata?

Orbea variegata thrives in well-draining soil and requires bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade. Water it sparingly, letting the soil dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. In colder months, reduce watering, as the plant goes dormant. It prefers warm temperatures and needs protection from frost. Repot the plant every few years to refresh the soil and prevent overcrowding.

What is the common name for Orbea variegata?

The common names for Orbea variegata include “Carrion Flower” and “Starfish Plant.” These names refer to its distinct, star-shaped flowers that can emit an odor resembling rotting flesh, which attracts pollinators like flies.

What is the difference between Orbea and Stapelia?

Both Orbea and Stapelia are part of the same family (Apocynaceae) and produce similar star-shaped flowers. However, they are classified into different genera based on subtle botanical differences. Generally, Orbea flowers are smaller and have more varied patterns, while Stapelia flowers tend to be larger. They are both known for their carrion-like scent.

Does Stapelia like full sun?

Stapelia plants prefer bright, indirect light or partial shade rather than full sun. While they can tolerate some direct sunlight, too much intense light can cause their stems to turn red or brown and may lead to sunburn.

Do Stapelia like to be root bound?

Yes, Stapelia plants tend to thrive when slightly root bound. They don’t require frequent repotting and may bloom better when their roots are somewhat confined. However, they should still be repotted every few years to refresh the soil.

Requirements

Hardiness 9 - 11
Plant Type Houseplants, Cactus & Succulents
Plant Family Apocynaceae
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height 4" (10cm)
Spread 1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm)
Spacing 20" (50cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Low
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Evergreen, Fragrant
Tolerance Drought
Garden Uses Hanging Baskets, Patio And Containers
How Many Plants
Do I Need?
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
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Requirements

Hardiness 9 - 11
Plant Type Houseplants, Cactus & Succulents
Plant Family Apocynaceae
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height 4" (10cm)
Spread 1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm)
Spacing 20" (50cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Low
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Evergreen, Fragrant
Tolerance Drought
Garden Uses Hanging Baskets, Patio And Containers
How Many Plants
Do I Need?

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