Orbea variegata
کاکتوس ستاره ای · صبار نجم البحر · Carrion-flower · Starfish-cactus · Toad-cactus
Description
Source: leafsnapOrbea variegata is a succulent plant within the Apocynaceae family, native to South Africa. Commonly referred to as the Starfish Cactus due to its star-shaped flowers, this plant features thick, fleshy leaves that grow in opposite pairs and form a rosette at the base of each stem. The green, four-angled stems can reach up to 30 cm in length. The star-shaped flowers of Orbea variegata have five pointed petals fused at their base, creating a tube-like structure. These flowers emit a distinctive odor reminiscent of rotting meat, which attracts flies for pollination. Orbea variegata thrives in well-draining soil and requires moderate watering during its growing season in spring and summer. During its winter dormancy, it needs minimal water. Propagation can be achieved through stem cuttings or seeds. Thanks to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements, this plant is an excellent addition to both indoor and outdoor gardens. However, it is toxic if ingested by humans or pets, so caution is advised when handling it around children or animals.
Care Guide
💧 Water Every 7 days
Water this plant thoroughly, but allow the soil to dry out in between watering. In the winter, water even less often, just enough to keep the leaves from shriveling. Orbea variegata is quite drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water. All of the soil should be dry before watering. If the soil is still moist, you risk giving this plant too much water which can make it start to rot. When you water this plant, water well and then allow the soil to dry out completely before you water it again.
☀️ Light Full sun
Starfish Cactus does best with full sun but can tolerate situations where sunlight is scarcer. In its natural environment it thrives in abundant sunshine. Too little light stunts growth, while too much can cause leaf scorch.
🌡️ Temperature 15–37.8°C
Starfish Cactus originates from areas with moderate temperatures and prefers a canopy-like habitat. Its preferred temperature range is 59 to 100.4°F (15 to 38℃). During colder months, consider increasing indoor ambient temperatures to match.
💨 Humidity dry (<40%)
This plant prefers dry conditions, so don't mist it. However, watering it less often can also thrive in higher humidity.
🪴 Soil 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer
For Starfish Cactus, light applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are sufficient. Avoid fertilizing in winter and summer when the plant is dormant. Reduce fertilization for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before applying fertilizer. Fertilizing supports healthy growth and encourages blooms.
🪴 Pot & Repot Every 2 years
When repotting a Starfish Cactus, pick a pot slightly larger than the current one that provides good drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Carefully lift the plant out of its old container, brush away excess soil, and plant it at the same depth. Wait several days before watering so any root injury can heal. Repot in spring or fall, and place it in a brightly lit spot.
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Orbea variegata has no toxic effects reported.
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Orbea
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 7-12
- Mature Height
- 10 cm to 20 cm
- Mature Spread
- 76 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow, Purple
- Flower Size
- 5.08 cm to 7.62 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Fall, Winter
- Native Area
- South Africa, Botswana