Carrion Plant
May 25, 2011
Stapelia grandiflora (carrion plant )


Stapelia grandiflora is a flowering plant in the Stapelia genus. It is commonly referred to as the Carrion Plant, Starfish Flower, or Starfish Cactus, although it is not related to cacti at all. The name "Carrion Plant" (due to the odor emitted by the flowers as a technique of attracting flies in areas where other pollinating insects are scarce) can also refer to similar Stapelia species as well as members of related genera.
More information: http://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/STAPELIA/Stapelia_grandiflora/Stapelia_grandiflora/stapelia_grandiflora.htm
Family: Asclepiadaceae (Apocynaceae) (Milkweeds family)
Scientific name: Stapelia grandiflora Masson
In: Stapel. Nov., 13, t. 11, 1797
Origin: Southern Africa (Northern cape, Eastern Cape and Free State)
Common names: Carrion Flower, Star Fish Flower, Giant Zulu, Giant toad plant.