Star Flower (Orbea variegata)

Star Flower

Orbea variegata

Its star-shaped blooms carry a carrion scent to attract pollinators, a bold desert oddity. Succulent perennial; common names: star flower, carrion flower.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun to partial sun; tolerate bright indirect light indoors; avoid prolonged midday sun in hot climates
💧
Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
🌡️
Temperature Thrives at 15–25°C; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent stem damage
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Reduced to small, triangular, fleshy scales along trailing stems
  • Flower: Star-shaped, 5–10 cm diameter, variegated cream and maroon with hairy margins
  • Stem: Four-angled, fleshy, grey-green to green, prostrate or trailing
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Water thoroughly when soil is completely dry

Fertilization

Diluted succulent fertilizer once monthly. Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid overstimulating soft growth

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels without burning delicate succulent roots
Pruning
  • Remove dead or shriveled stems to maintain tidy growth and improve airflow
  • Trim overgrown trailing stems to control spread and redirect energy to new growth
  • Remove spent flower heads to prevent fungal buildup and encourage future blooms
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for rock gardens, container displays, and indoor succulent arrangements; used in xeriscaping projects