What is Stapelia?
Stapelia is a family that belongs to the Apocynaceae family and consists of 40 to 45 plant species. All species in this family are low growing, succulent plants and natives of South Africa. They grow in the shade of rocks and other plants, usually in deserts and rocky terrains. Plants absorb and maintain water in leaves, stems and roots. Thanks to this characteristic, plants have a fleshy and plump appearance than some other plants. There are many plants in different families and families to which such names relate. Their most important attribute is naturally their stinking odor.
Most plants in the family Stapelia resemble cactations, have hair on it, and emits a scent that is very similar to the rotting meat. The smell, hair and color of these plants deceive many pollinators to confuse them with a piece of meat. Therefore, flies, beetles, d blow flies are attracted to them to pollination. Some flowers have an intelligent trap in them to hold insects for a while to better ensure that DIt goes to the transfer of pollen.
Many species in this family are used to decorate households like pots and in fluctuations for their unique appearances. Most often they are the main attraction. All species are adaptable hot and dry climate and can survive without water for many days. In a partial shade, they can grow well, even if the temperatures are high. The genus is named after the famous botany and doctor Johannes van Stapel.
Stapelia Gigantea is one of the species in this family and has the largest flowers. These flowers have a diameter of about 1.3 feet (0.4 m) and clusters of these plants can spread up to 6.5 feet (2 m). The name gigantea was given this species based on its large flowers. This species is commonly obtained by succulent collectors of plants. It also uses the zulu strain to treat hysteria.
Another popular species that carries an unusual flower is Stapelia Leendertziae . The flowers of this rosThe tils are in the shape of a bell and large and can be red or dark purple colors. They can grow up to 4.7 inches (12 cm) in length and are commonly found in gardens. This flower can withstand frost and is considered easy to cultivate.