Starfish Cactus (Ceropegia mixta)

Starfish Cactus

Also known as: Toad cactus, Little carrion flower, Toad plant

Native to South Africa, the starfish Cactus is not actually a cactus. Instead, it is a member of the milkweed family. Its star-shaped flowers resemble an open wound and give off the odor of roadkill, or carrion (which gives the plant its name).

Scientific classification

Species

Starfish Cactus (Ceropegia mixta)

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

10 cm to 20 cm

Plant Height

75 cm

Spread

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Distribution of Starfish Cactus

Distribution Map

Starfish Cactus is native to the southern regions of the African continent. While it thrives in its natural habitat, starfish Cactus has also been introduced to other areas within the continent. Additionally, starfish Cactus is not just found in the wild; it has been embraced in cultivation for various purposes.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coastal on granite, shale outcrops

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Starfish Cactus is grown for its flowers, but not their fragrance. It is popular for its showy spotted flowers that, unfortunately, emit a foul odor. The succulent works well in sunny rock gardens and xeriscaping. It can also be used as a container plant in patio gardens, as long as the pot has adequate drainage.

Interesting Facts

Studies have examined the properties of the starfish Cactus flowers that flies find most attractive. The scent of rotting meat was the most significant factor. The overall color of the flower did appear significant even though flies cannot easily distinguish between the colors studied. Oddly, the size and darkness of spots on the flower did not appear to play a role.

Name Story

Carrion cactus: Starfish Cactus's name comes from its scent - the flower smells like rotting meat. This acts to attract flies, which then pollinate the flowers. Its genus name, Ceropegia, means "wax fountain," and was coined by Carl Linnaeus for other members of the genus. The specific epithet, mixta, simply translates to "mixed."

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Toxicity

Starfish Cactus produces cardiac glycoside toxins that affect heart rate. The bulb and flowers have the highest concentrations. Poisonous if ingested, symptoms range from mild gastrointestinal issues to severe irregular heartbeat and potential death.

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Care Guide for Starfish Cactus

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from arid regions, starfish Cactus is drought-tolerant and stores water efficiently, requiring watering every 2-3 weeks. Typically grown indoors, it thrives in well-draining soil. During the growing season, its water uptake slightly increases to support flowering.

Fertilize: To ensure starfish Cactus's vitality and encourage blooming, use a balanced liquid succulent fertilizer monthly from spring to fall at half-strength to prevent over-fertilization. Water soil pre-application, avoid direct leaf contact, and stop feeding in winter to respect dormancy for optimal growth and flowering.

Propagation: Starfish Cactus has a star-shaped blossom and can be propagated via cuttings. Make a clean cut from a healthy stem, let it callus, then root in well-draining soil. Keep the medium moist, avoid waterlogging, and be patient as roots develop over several weeks before resuming regular care.

Repotting: Repot starfish Cactus every two years in spring using a slightly larger, well-draining pot to promote growth. After repotting, place starfish Cactus in bright, indirect light and wait a week to resume watering, allowing for recovery and root development.

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