PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade during extreme midday heat to prevent stem scorching
Watering
Allow the gritty soil mix to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and stem collapse
Temperature
Thrives in warm arid conditions; protect from temperatures below 10°C to avoid frost damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Reduced to small, triangular fleshy scales along stems
- Flower: Large (10–15 cm diameter) star-shaped blooms, brownish-purple with hairy margins; emits carrion-like odor
- Stem: Green, four-angled fleshy stems with soft teeth along edges; stores water for arid conditions
Care Guide
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 5–7 cm of soil is completely dry; reduce frequency during extreme heat
Fertilization
Diluted low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer once every 6 weeks. Fertilizer should be diluted to half the recommended strength to avoid burning succulent roots
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush fully dried eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer on the soil surface to improve drainage and provide calcium for healthy stem growthPruning
- Remove dead, shriveled stems at the base to maintain a tidy clump
- Trim overcrowded stems to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
- Cut spent flower stalks close to the stem to redirect energy to new stem growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no adverse effects reported
Humans: No reported toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental succulent grown for its large, unusual star-shaped blooms; often used in xeriscape gardens
