Starfish Flower (Stapelia Hirsuta) is a perennial succulent in the Apocynaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires low watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Stapelia hirsuta is a succulent plant known for its large, star-shaped, hairy flowers that emit a carrion-like odor to attract pollinators.

Starfish Flower

Starfish Flower

Stapelia Hirsuta

Stapelia hirsuta is a succulent plant known for its large, star-shaped, hairy flowers that emit a carrion-like odor to attract pollinators.

Quick Facts

Type
succulent
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Low
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
9-11

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
👶
Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, gravelly, well-drained
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen plant, groundcover, conversation piece

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Starfish Flower

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Starfish Flower
Starfish Flower detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Apocynaceae
Genus:Stapelia