Orbea variegata
"Starfish Flower" It came from outer space ...or maybe a 1950s outer space movie! This easy-to-grow Stapeliad (a member of the Milkweed family) creates pretty darned spectacular blooms that look like meaty starfish. Typically 2” across with stunningly patterned chocolate/purple/bronze spots surrounding a starred center, blooms appear (after a year or two) from mid-Summer to Fall on soft, succulent, pendant stems to 10”. Yes, they smell like rotting meat (of course!) - all the better to attract those pollinating flies. Everything can’t be all butterflies and hummingbirds! Hardy to 20-30° F, the stems will quickly and easily fill out a 10” pot (in well drained soil.) Feed or add compost in Winter and Spring, allow to dry between waterings. Best in part sun outdoors, or as a houseplant in a West-facing window. -Annie |
