For the last couple of years, I have posted pictures of the Carrion Plant (Stapelia Gigantea) in September, the normal time for them to bloom. For whatever reason, this year they were about a month late. This is one of the last flowers to open in late October. Click on the image to enlarge.
From Plant of the Week:
Stapelia gigantea is an interesting plant that resembles cactus, with clumps of 4-sided spineless stems. Carrion flowers are native to S. Africa.
Blooming Time: September. Flowers are large, fleshy, shaped as 5-pointed stars; they have an elaborate circular fleshy disk in the center. The flowers smell like carrion and are not offensive if blooming outside. Flowers are 10-16 inches across.
Culture: Stapelia gigantea need full sun and moderate water in the growing season. They need a well-drained soil (2 parts loam to 1 part sharp sand) with small pebbles mixed in for drainage. They need a cool, dry rest period in winter. Fertilize once during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to ½ the strength recommended on the label. They are best managed in pots and can withstand extreme heat.
Propagation: Stapelia gigantea are propagated by stem cuttings. Take cutting in spring when new growth begins. Let cuttings callus up for 2-3 weeks before planting.
