Stapelia leendertziae
| Light | Bright light with some protection from harsh midday sun; a little shade suits it |
|---|---|
| Water | Moderate in the growing season, allowing the mix to dry between waterings; keep nearly dry in winter |
| Soil | Fast-draining, mostly mineral mix (see Soil and potting mix) |
| Temperature | Keep above about 10 °C; frost-tender, USDA zones 9b–11 |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings (easy); also seed |
| Toxicity | Generally regarded as non-toxic; no significant toxicity to people or pets is reported |
Stapelia leendertziae is a clump-forming stem succulent from southern Africa, and one of the most distinctive of the carrion-flower stapeliads. Unlike its relatives, which open flat, five-pointed stars, this species produces deep maroon flowers shaped like a bell or urn — nodding, velvety and reddish-brown — which have earned it the common name black bells. Like other members of the genus it is fly-pollinated and its blooms carry a carrion scent.
Description
Stapelia leendertziae forms low, spreading clumps of soft, four-angled green stems edged with small teeth, much like a typical Stapelia. The stems are leafless and photosynthetic, and take on reddish tones in strong light.
The flowers are what set the species apart. Rather than the flat, spreading stars seen across most of the genus, the petals here are fused for much of their length into a deep, bell- or urn-shaped tube that flares only at the mouth, then curls back at the tips. Each bloom is a rich, dark maroon to purple-brown, velvety in texture and lightly wrinkled, and hangs or nods from the base of the stems. As with other stapeliads the flowers give off a carrion odour that attracts flies, their natural pollinators; the scent is strong at close range but does not carry far, and is generally milder than in some larger-flowered relatives.
Distribution and habitat
The species is native to southern Africa, in South Africa (notably the interior grassland and bushveld provinces) and neighbouring Eswatini. It grows in well-drained, often rocky ground, frequently sheltered among grasses, low shrubs or rock crevices that give it a little shade and protection. In habitat it experiences warm, wetter summers and dry winters — the rhythm to aim for in cultivation.
Cultivation
Stapelia leendertziae is an easy and rewarding plant for anyone who can resist overwatering, which is the usual cause of loss. Grow it in a shallow, well-drained pot in a very free-draining, mostly mineral mix, in bright light with a little protection from the fiercest afternoon sun. Water moderately through the warm growing season, letting the mix dry out between drinks, and keep the plant nearly dry and frost-free over winter. Soft, blackened patches at the base signal rot from too much moisture or a mix that holds water — the most common problem with stapeliads. See Watering and Repotting for general technique.
Propagation
Propagation is easy from stem cuttings. Detach a healthy stem segment, let the cut surface dry and callus for a few days, then set it on a gritty, barely moist mix to root — see Propagation — cuttings. Clumps can also be lifted and divided at repotting time. Seed is possible where fresh, viable seed is available, sown on a warm mineral surface, though cuttings are quicker and keep the plant true. See Propagation — seed for the general method.
Common problems
- Rot — soft, blackening stems from overwatering, a slow-draining mix or cold, damp winters; remove affected tissue and take clean cuttings from healthy growth if needed.
- Mealybugs — white fluff tucked between stems and around the roots; check clumps regularly (see Pests and diseases).
- Weak, drawn stems — too little light produces pale, floppy growth and few flowers; move to a brighter spot.
See also
- Stapelia — the genus overview
- Soil and potting mix · Watering · Propagation — cuttings · Repotting · Pests and diseases