Overview
Stapelia hirsuta is a clump forming, trailing, spreading branched cactus succulent in the genus Stapelia, part of the Apocynaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Stapelia hirsuta 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 hirsuta is a succulent perennial cultivar of 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 in spring and summer. Like other Stapelia, it thrives in full sun and well-drained loam or sandy soils, preferring a sheltered aspect such as south or east-facing positions. It is suited for cultivation in sub-tropical environments, conservatories, or as a houseplant, requiring gritty compost and propagation 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 hirsuta 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 hirsuta
- 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 hirsuta?
Stapelia hirsuta prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Stapelia hirsuta need?
Stapelia hirsuta grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Stapelia hirsuta hardy in the UK?
Stapelia hirsuta 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 hirsuta?
Seed, Removal of rooted sections, Stem section cuttings.
More in the Stapelia genus
- Stapelialeopard cactus
- Stapelia flavopurpurea
- Stapelia grandiflora
- Stapelia grandiflora 'Flavirostris'
- Stapelia x divergens