Overview
Stapelia flavopurpurea is a clump forming, trailing, spreading branched cactus succulent in the genus Stapelia, part of the Apocynaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Stapelia flavopurpurea 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 flavopurpurea is a succulent perennial cultivar within the Stapelia genus, known for its clump-forming, trailing, and spreading branched habit. This evergreen plant features upright, angular stems with toothed edges and produces prominent star-shaped flowers during the summer, which are often noted for their strong and unpleasant aroma. It thrives in full sun with well-drained loam or sandy soil of varying pH and is best grown in sheltered, south- or east-facing positions. Suitable for houseplants or conservatories, it requires a gritty compost and can be propagated by seed or stem cuttings.
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 flavopurpurea 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 flavopurpurea
- 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 flavopurpurea?
Stapelia flavopurpurea prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Stapelia flavopurpurea need?
Stapelia flavopurpurea grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Stapelia flavopurpurea hardy in the UK?
Stapelia flavopurpurea 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 flavopurpurea?
Seed, Removal of rooted sections, Stem section cuttings.
More in the Stapelia genus
- Stapelialeopard cactus
- Stapelia grandiflora
- Stapelia grandiflora 'Flavirostris'
- Stapelia hirsuta
- Stapelia x divergens