Stapelia divaricata – Rare Star-Flower Succulent

Add something genuinely unusual to your plant collection with Stapelia divaricata, a rare flowering succulent native to South Africa’s Western Cape region.

This distinctive plant develops clusters of thick, leafless, four-angled stems. The stems are normally bright green and may develop subtle purple colouring near their tips when exposed to stronger light. As the plant matures, it gradually forms a dense, spreading clump that looks attractive even when it is not flowering.

During late summer and autumn, established plants can produce remarkable star-shaped flowers near the base of their stems. The flowers may display soft shades of pale pink, purple, orange or yellow, with creamy outer surfaces and darker veins. Like many Stapelia species, the flowers may produce an unusual scent that attracts flies for pollination.

Stapelia divaricata prefers bright light, warm conditions and fast-draining succulent soil. Water it thoroughly only after the soil has dried completely, and keep it almost dry during winter. Excess water or poorly draining soil can cause stem and root rot.

Its compact size and unusual structure make it ideal for balconies, bright windows, succulent arrangements and collectors looking for something different from ordinary cacti.