Botanical Name: Stapelia leendertziae
Common Name: Black Bells Stapelia, Dark Stapelia, Giant Stapelia, Carrion Flower, Starfish Flower
Family: Apocynaceae
Stapelia leendertziae is a striking succulent species native to southern Africa, prized for its unusual bell-shaped flowers. The stems are fleshy, four-angled, and softly toothed along the edges, forming clumps that grow to about 20 to 30 cm in height. The blooms are large and dramatic, deep maroon to dark purple, with a waxy, glossy texture that resembles leather. They emit a faint carrion scent, a natural adaptation for attracting fly pollinators.
This species prefers bright, indirect sunlight and excellent drainage, thriving in gritty, mineral substrates typical of xeric succulents. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry thoroughly between irrigations, overwatering easily leads to root rot. It is best suited for warm conditions and indoor cultivation in temperate climates, though it can be grown outdoors in frost-free regions. Its bizarre, sculptural forms and unusual flowers make it a standout plant for collectors of stapeliads and other succulent oddities.
General Instructions (English)
If you don’t have a seed spreader, greenhouse, or similar equipment, follow these steps:
Fill a container with good drainage using a mix of peat and perlite.
Moisten the substrate, ensuring it’s damp but not soaked.
Plant the seeds and cover them lightly with the substrate.
Place the container or pot inside a polyethylene bag (a ziplock bag works well and is available at supermarkets).
This method will provide the ideal temperature and humidity for the germination phase.
Keep the seeds in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight.
Open the bag every 2–3 days to check the moisture level and see if any seeds have germinated. This also allows for air exchange, preventing unwanted fungi.
After germination, carefully transfer the seedlings to individual pots, taking care not to damage the delicate roots.
Acclimatize the seedlings for 4–12 weeks before transplanting them to their final location.
Transplant only on cloudy days to reduce stress on the seedlings.
Prepare the planting pit 2–4 weeks in advance by adding the necessary fertilizers for optimal growth.
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