Stapelia leendertziae’Cristata '
Black Bells , Carrion Flower , Maroon Cup Starfish , Rugose Cup Starfish , Star Flower
Stapelia leendertziaef.cristata

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family line : ApocynaceaeSubfamily : AsclepiadoideaeTribe : StapeliaeGenus : Stapelia
Stapelia leendertziae’Cristata ' is a form ofStapelia leendertziaeselected for its mutated growth .
Stapelia leendertziae’Cristata ' is an unusual succulent with fleshy buff - determine stem that grow along the ground or hang elegantly over the pot . The stems are dull green to reddish in full Sunday .

The works is most blazing in bloom due to its unique , royal - brown to dark over-embellished flowers that appear in late summertime . The efflorescence are buzzer - regulate to urn - shape and come along in late summer . They can attain up to 3.2 inches ( 8 cm ) in length and diameter .
USDA hardiness zones9a to 11b : from 20 ° F ( −6.7 ° C ) to 50 ° F ( +10 ° C ) .
Several specie are pretty comfortable to spring up . Others , often those with more or less hairy stems and the more unusual flowers , are more ambitious and require heedful watering ( with some plant food ) during the grow season and consummate water withdrawal during the wintertime months . A minimal wintertime temperature of 50 ° F ( 10 ° ascorbic acid ) is acceptable , providing plant are observe dry . A heated raise workbench or incubator may help oneself touchy plants get through the cold months . However , many species live under shrubs in their habitat and prefer light shade rather than full sun .

A granular compost is essential , and clay Mary Jane are advisable for the more fragile species . Some agriculturist prefer mineral - only compost to minimize the chance of a fungal attack on the roots . A layer of grit on the surface of the compost prevents moisture from accumulating around the base of the stems .
KeepingStapelias and their roots free of pests such asmealybugsis the tangible key to success , as fungous attempt often pass off due to damage to stems by insects .
See more atHow to Grow and Care for Stapelia .
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