Orbea
Orbea spp. (notably Orbea variegata and Orbea ciliata)
Orbeas are dramatic stem succulents closely related to Stapelia, producing large, often foul-smelling star-shaped flowers with extraordinary patterning. They symbolize transformation, duality, and the complex relationship between beauty and repulsion.
Apocynaceae (formerly Asclepiadaceae)
Summer to early autumn (July to September); flowers open for several days
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: catasetums and lantanas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Orbea, like other stapeliads, occupies a compelling position in both botany and symbolism. Its flowers are among the most visually intricate in the succulent world, yet they attract pollinators through mimicry of decay rather than sweetness. This duality makes orbea a profound symbol of the complexity of beauty and the way that remarkable things are sometimes achieved through unexpected means. In the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa, stapeliads like orbea are part of an ancient ecosystem shaped by millions of years of co-evolution with insects. Collectors worldwide prize them as living examples of nature's extraordinary ingenuity.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to bright indirect light; benefits from direct morning sun with some afternoon shade in very hot climates
Water
Water moderately during the growing season; allow soil to dry thoroughly between waterings; keep nearly dry in winter
Soil
Very well-draining gritty or sandy mix, Cactus and succulent potting mix, Coarse loam with added pumice or grit
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in a shallow, wide container with excellent drainage as roots are shallow and prone to rot
Position outdoors on a sunny patio in summer to encourage robust flowering
Remove spent flowers promptly if the carrion scent is bothersome indoors
Propagate by stem cuttings; allow cut ends to callous for 2-3 days before placing in dry gritty mix
Protect from temperatures below 45 degrees F (7 degrees C); bring indoors before the first frost
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Collector specimen and conversation plant
- Shallow dish and rock garden feature
- Indoor sunny windowsill succulent
- Botanical garden display plant
- Terrarium element in warm, dry environments
Traditional Uses
- No established medicinal uses; grown as an ornamental succulent
- Some related Apocynaceae plants are used in traditional medicine in southern Africa, but orbea itself has no documented therapeutic applications
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Orbea
what is an orbea plant?
Orbea is a genus of stem succulents native to Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, closely related to Stapelia. They are prized for their extraordinary large, star-shaped flowers with intricate banded or wrinkled patterning. Like other stapeliads, many species produce a carrion odor to attract fly pollinators.
why does orbea smell like rotting meat?
Orbea flowers smell like carrion or rotting flesh as a pollination strategy. The scent attracts blowflies and carrion flies, which land on the flower expecting to find a food source or place to lay eggs. In doing so, they pick up and transfer pollen, completing the plant's reproductive cycle.
how do you grow orbea successfully?
Plant orbea in a very well-draining gritty mix in a shallow container. Provide full sun to bright indirect light and water moderately in summer, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Keep nearly dry in winter. Avoid overwatering, which causes stem rot. Bring indoors before frost.
is orbea the same as stapelia?
Orbea and Stapelia are closely related genera in the Apocynaceae family and were previously classified together. Orbea was separated based on differences in flower structure, particularly the shape of the corona. Many plants formerly called Stapelia variegata are now classified as Orbea variegata.
what does an orbea flower symbolize?
Orbea flowers symbolize duality, hidden complexity, and unconventional beauty. Their extraordinary appearance paired with an unexpected scent represents the idea that remarkable things are often achieved through surprising and unconventional means.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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