Overview
Stapelia is a clump forming, trailing, spreading branched cactus succulent in the genus Stapelia, part of the Apocynaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Stapelia grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include houseplants, sub-tropical and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Stapelia, commonly known as leopard cactus or star of the desert, is a succulent perennial from the Apocynaceae family. It forms clumps with trailing, spreading branched stems that are upright and angular with toothed edges. In summer, it produces large, star-shaped flowers noted for their strong, often unpleasant aroma. This evergreen plant thrives in full sun with well-drained, gritty soil and is suited to sheltered, south- or east-facing positions. Stapelia is typically grown as a houseplant or in conservatories and greenhouses in the UK, where it requires protection from cold.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Stapelia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Stapelia size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Cactus Succulent
- Habit
- Clump forming, Trailing, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Sub-tropical, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Stapelia
- Propagation
- Seed, Removal of rooted sections, Stem section cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Black root rot, Stem and root rots in wet conditions
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Stapelia?
Stapelia prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Stapelia need?
Stapelia grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Stapelia hardy in the UK?
Stapelia has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Stapelia?
Seed, Removal of rooted sections, Stem section cuttings.
More in the Stapelia genus
- Stapelia flavopurpurea
- Stapelia grandiflora
- Stapelia grandiflora 'Flavirostris'
- Stapelia hirsuta
- Stapelia x divergens