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Orbea variegata
Orbea variegata
Orbea variegata
Orbea variegata

Orbea variegata

TAXONOMY

FamilyApocynaceae
GenusOrbea
Zone10

ABOUT

Orbea variegata, commonly known as the Carrion Flower, is a succulent subshrub native to South Africa. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family and the Orbea genus. This plant is known for its star-shaped, mottled flowers that emit a strong odor to attract pollinators. It thrives in subtropical climates and has a dormancy period during the cooler months.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Carrion-Flower
Podanthes Lepida
Starfish Cactus
Starfish-Cactus
Toad-Cactus
Orbea anguinea
Orbea bisulca
Orbea bufonia
Orbea clypeata
Orbea curtisii
Orbea inodora
Orbea lepida
Orbea mixta
Orbea orbicularis
Orbea picta
Orbea quinquenervia
Orbea retusa
Orbea trisulca
Orbea woodfordiana
Stapelia anguinea
Stapelia atrata
Stapelia atropurpurea
Stapelia beffoniana
Stapelia bidentata
Stapelia bifolia
Stapelia bufonia
Stapelia bufonis
Stapelia clypeata
Stapelia conspurcata
Stapelia curtisii
Stapelia hispida
Stapelia horizontalis
Stapelia inodora
Stapelia lepida
Stapelia limosa
Stapelia marginata
Stapelia marmorata
Stapelia mixta
Stapelia monstrosa
Stapelia natalensis
Stapelia normalis
Stapelia obliqua
Stapelia ophiuncula
Stapelia orbicularis
Stapelia orbiculata
Stapelia picta
Stapelia planiflora
Stapelia putida
Stapelia quinquenervis
Stapelia retusa
Stapelia ×rosea
Stapelia ×rufescens
Stapelia rugosa
Stapelia scutellata
Stapelia ×tigrina
Stapelia variegata
Stapelia variegata var. brevicornis
Stissera variegata

OVERVIEW

WaterDry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity40%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

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DETAILS

Care Instructions
Orbea variegata requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It prefers moderate temperatures and low humidity. Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. This succulent is relatively easy to care for but requires attention to its specific light and watering needs.
Soil
Orbea variegata prefers well-draining soil, such as a sandy or cactus mix. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Ensure the soil dries out almost completely between waterings to mimic its natural habitat.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 2-7-7 during the growing season. Fertilize sparingly, as too much can harm the plant. Once a month during the growing season is usually sufficient.
Repotting
Repot Orbea variegata every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Repot during the growing season, and handle the plant carefully to avoid damaging its roots.
Propagation
Propagate Orbea variegata through stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry and callous for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil. Propagation is best done during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is not typically required for Orbea variegata. However, you can remove any dead or damaged stems to maintain the plant's appearance and health.
Toxicity
Orbea variegata is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The sap can cause skin irritation, so handle the plant with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
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