Systematic

Description   

Distribution & Habitat 

Propagation 

Fun Facts   

References

  

Scientific Name:  

 

Stapelia gigantea

Or

Stapelia nobilis 

  

 Common Name:

Taxonomy  

Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
SubClass: Asteridae
Order: Gentianales
Family: Asclepiadaceae

   

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Description

A clustering succulent with deeply ribbed, fat stems growing to 10-20 cm high. Stems are toothed along angles and olive green and velvety. Flowers are “gigantic” growing to 20cm or more in diameter. Flower color is pale yellow with transverse crimson strips. Color is variable with some forms more reddish and often covered with purplish or crimson hairs. The flowers are known as Carrion flowers which produce an absolutely horrendous odor to attracts its chief pollinator - the fly.

Reference for Descriptive Information:

http://florawww.eeb.uconn.edu/acc_num/198502824.html

 Cultural Information

  

Soil ·   well-drained (2 parts loam to 1 part sharp sand) with small pebbles mixed in for drainage

Water requirement ·moderate water during the growing season, but dryer during the rest period

Light ·Full sun during growth season, but less during rest period
Temperature ·Can withstand extremely high temperatures (desert conditions), but requires a cooler rest period during the winter
Other · Fertilize once during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to ½ the recommended strength. 

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Reference for Cultural Information:
http://www.plantoftheweek.org/week048.shtml

Reference: http://florawww.eeb.uconn.edu/acc_num/198502824.html

  

Propagation Methods:   

The Giant Toad Plant is best propagated by stem cuttings. Cut during growth period when new growth is visible.  Let cutting callous for two-three weeks before planting.

  

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References for Propagation Methods:

http://www.plantoftheweek.org/week048.shtml

Fun Facts: S. gigantea is known for its very distinct smell of rotting flesh.  The plant’s primary pollinator, the fly, is attracted to the smell and will actually lay its progeny in the center of the flower—pollinating it in the process. The flower with its leathery touch resembles raw flesh. Other Stapelia species have similar odors and also produce flowers that resemble flesh in color, texture, and smell. The flowers of this particular species are well-known for the size—some reaching diameters of close to 20 inches! The flowers, if planted outdoors, are quite nice to have around.   

References for Uses and Fun Facts:

http://www.plantoftheweek.org/week048.shtml

General References

   All references are noted where appropriate.

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Image References:   

URL specified below each image.

  

This page was developed by:   

Maura K. O'Donnell

W&J Class of 2001  

   

Last revised on 7 May 2001