PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial sun outdoors; bright indirect light indoors; avoid prolonged deep shade to prevent etiolation
Watering
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives at 15–28°C; tolerates brief light frost down to 5°C with proper drainage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Reduced to small, triangular, fleshy scales along upright stems
- Flower: Star-shaped, 10–15 cm wide, hairy, brownish-purple with pale margins; emits carrion-like odor
- Stem: Four-angled, green to reddish-green, fleshy, upright or low-trailing
Care Guide
Watering
Water thoroughly when soil is fully dry; reduce frequency during extreme heatwaves
Fertilization
Diluted succulent fertilizer once monthly. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to support bloom production without softening succulent tissue
Banana peel compost tea：Fully compost banana peels to eliminate odor; dilute 1:20 with water for root drench to promote floweringPruning
- Remove dead, shriveled stems to maintain a tidy clump appearance
- Trim overcrowded stems to improve airflow and reduce fungal risk
- Cut spent flower stalks at the base to redirect energy to new stem growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental succulent; grown for its unique, fragrant (carrion-scented) star-shaped blooms
