Scientific name: Stapelia gigantea
Common name: Zulu giant, Carrion Flower
One of the largest flowers in the plant kingdom can be found here. The smell of rotting meat makes thisSucculent its other common name, “Carrion Flower.” The tall green stems of this succulent are similar to a cactus, although it is actually in the milkweed family.
Quick Look at Stapelia gigantea
- Full sun to partial shade
- Typical water needs for a succulent
- Plant grows up to 12″ (30.5 cm) tall
Plant grows up to 36″ (91 cm) wide - Zone 9a (Minimum 20° F | -6.7° C)
- Not cold hardy
- Propagation by stem cuttings and leaves
- Can be toxic to humans and animals
- Actively grows in Spring and Fall
General Care for Stapelia gigantea “Zulu Giant”
Stapelia gigantea smells like rotting meat. The plant does well in pots and adds excellent ground cover to outdoor gardens.
Watering
Stapelia gigantea “Zulu Giant” has typical watering needs. The “soak and dry” method will allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Where to Plant
If you live in a zone that gets colder than 20 F, it’s best to plant this plant in a container that can be brought indoors. It does well in both full and partial sun.
You can plant in an area of your garden that gets 6 hours of sunlight a day. If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, place a room that gets a lot of sunlight near a southern-facing window.
How to Propagate Stapelia gigantea “Zulu Giant”
Stapelia gigantea can be grown from stem cuttings.
Cuttings
Use a sterile, sharp knife or pair of scissors to grow a giant. Allow the main plant’s stem to callous for several days before placing it on well-draining soil. Water whenever the soil has dried out.
