Succulent
Carrion Flower
Stapelia grandiflora
Varieties We Carry
StandardStapelia grandiflora
Sizes & Pricing
4 inFrom$6.95
1 galFrom$12.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun to Part Shade (bright indirect light preferred; avoid intense afternoon sun)
WaterLow
Mature size3-12 inches × 1-3 feet
About Carrion Flower
Carrion flower (Stapelia grandiflora) is a South African succulent forming compact clumps of four-angled, velvety pale green stems that substitute for leaves in photosynthesis. In NE Florida zone 9b it can be grown outdoors year-round with excellent drainage, producing spectacular 6–8 inch starfish-shaped flowers in reddish-brown to purple from summer into fall. The blooms mimic rotting flesh to attract fly pollinators — a striking conversation piece for the rock or succulent garden. Starting at $6.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- Purple
- Growth Rate
- Slow to moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen (leafless succulent — photosynthetic stems)
- Soil
- Sandy, Well-drained (cactus/succulent mix; requires excellent drainage)
Care essentials
Light
Prefers bright light with some direct morning sun; avoid intense afternoon sun in NE Florida, which can scorch the pale stems. A spot with bright filtered light or morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal. In containers, can be moved seasonally.
Water
Water sparingly — allow soil to dry completely between waterings. In NE Florida's humid summers, err toward dry rather than wet to prevent root and stem rot. Reduce watering significantly in winter. Use containers or raised beds with exceptional drainage to offset Florida's heavy summer rains.
Soil & Fertilizer
Requires sharply draining cactus and succulent mix; incorporate coarse sand or perlite into NE Florida's native sandy soils for in-ground planting. Feed lightly with a low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer once in spring and once in early summer. Avoid overly rich soil.
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Common questions
Is Carrion Flower a good plant for St. Augustine?
Carrion Flower is a succulent for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-12 inches × 1-3 feet.