Scientific Name Stapelia leendertziae Common Names Black Bells, Leendertz's Carrion Flower, Maroon Cup Starfish, Star Flower, Rugose Cup Starfish Origin Rocky shrubland of South Africa Description Discovered by the Dutch botanist Mrs R. Leendertz, this fantastic easy-growing succulent hails from rocky South African shrubland. In late summer large flowers can bloom which look fantastic - in its homeland there aren't pollinating honey bees so flies do the job, meaning the blooms have developed to smell, well, not good. But don't worry, you have to get very close to pick up the smell and there's a great trick in there though if you tell your friends to get in close for a whiff.
Light Likes bright, direct light.
Water Allow the soil to completely dry out in-between waterings. Heavily reduce watering in winter.
Humidity Does not like high humidity.
Soil Use a free-draining soil mix with plenty of sand or grit.
Food May benefit from a light feeding during late spring/summer.
Temperature Can tolerate high summer temperatures, but is fine when the temperature drops in winter as long as there is sufficient light.
Pet-safe No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.
Sprouts Top Tips This plant can be kept outside during late spring/early summer and this should encourage the plant to flower. Try not to move the plant when it has buds on as this can stop it from flowering.
We have launched our first (hopefully monthly) ‘Letter from the Founder’ blog post. I talk about a string of bad luck, from water gushing from various ceilings in my life to a break-in, and also reflect on the incredible work we have done to win two awards earlier this year. I look ahead to what’s coming up in August, projects we are working on with our clients, and some thoughts about the rest of the year. And I give an insight into my brain, why I am who I am and why I’m so thankful for all the opportunities, passion and excitement that running Sprouts has given me as a founder and as a woman.