PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full to partial direct sunlight; tolerate bright indirect light indoors; avoid prolonged harsh midday summer sun to prevent sunscald
Watering
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, especially in cool months
Temperature
Thrives in 15–25°C; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent stem damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Reduced to small, fleshy triangular scales along green photosynthetic stems
- Flower: Star-shaped, 5–8 cm diameter, pale yellow with maroon spots; emits foul carrion-like odor
- Stem: Angular, fleshy, upright or trailing, forming dense clumps
Care Guide
Watering
Water thoroughly when top 5 cm of soil is completely dry
Fertilization
Diluted cactus fertilizer once monthly. Cease fertilization in winter during dormancy to avoid nutrient burn
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tsp per pot and mix lightly into topsoil to avoid pest attractionPruning
- Remove dead, shriveled stems to improve airflow and maintain tidy clumps
- Trim overcrowded growth in spring to encourage new stem development
- Snip off spent blooms at the base to prevent fungal rot
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and reduced appetite
Humans: Contains cardiac glycosides; ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset including nausea and stomach pain
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental succulent for rock gardens, container planters, or indoor succulent displays
