Baby Stapelia leendertziae

Tiny but mighty, Stapelia leendertziae—also known as the Black Bells or Carrion Flower—is one of the most unusual succulents we grow. Even as a baby plant, it has a sculptural quality that sets it apart. Its chunky, four-angled stems are soft green to greyish in colour, often tinged with purple in bright light. And while it may look quiet at first glance, this plant has a secret: when it matures, it produces astonishingly large, deep maroon to almost black flowers shaped like flared bells. They're bold, fascinating, and completely unexpected from such a small, unassuming start.

This is a wonderful addition to any succulent lover’s collection—especially those with an eye for the unusual. At Happy Houseplants, we love how easy it is to care for, and how beautifully it rewards patience. Even at this baby stage, it’s full of charm and character.

Plant size
You’ll receive a rooted baby plant in a 6cm nursery pot. Perfect for small shelves, windowsills, or starting your own succulent collection.

Native habitat and growth pattern
Stapelia leendertziae is native to the arid grasslands of southern Africa, where it thrives in rocky, well-draining soil and basks in bright light. It grows in clumps, sending up chunky, upright stems that eventually trail gently over the sides of containers. The spectacular flowers appear in late summer once the plant is more mature—easily the size of the whole plant!

Styling tips
This is a great plant for bright indoor shelves, terracotta pots, or mixed succulent arrangements. Its chunky, architectural form pairs well with softer succulents like Crassula ovata or Haworthia. Give it a spot where it can soak up the sun and you’ll see the stems take on a beautiful purplish hue.

Care guide

Stapelia leendertziae light requirements: Loves bright light and tolerates direct sun. A sunny windowsill is ideal.
Watering: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Water sparingly—especially in winter.
Humidity: Adaptable to average indoor humidity. Keep away from damp corners.
Feeding: Feed once every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with our Organic Tropical Plant Food—diluted slightly for baby plants.
Temperature: Keep above 12°C. Protect from frost.

Why choose this plant?

• A rare and unusual succulent, perfect for collectors
• Compact baby size—great for windowsills and small spaces
• Striking sculptural stems and dramatic flowers when mature
• Easy-care and drought-tolerant
• A brilliant gift for succulent lovers or fans of weird and wonderful plants

Interesting facts

• Its dark, bell-shaped flowers smell… interesting! In the wild, the scent attracts flies for pollination, but indoors it’s not strong unless you're very close.
• Part of the Apocynaceae family, which also includes Hoyas and Adeniums.
• Sometimes called “Carrion Flower” due to the pollination method—but don’t let the name put you off. It’s a true showstopper.

FAQs

Is Stapelia leendertziae easy to care for?
Very! As long as you give it good light and don’t overwater, it’s a low-maintenance beauty.

Will it flower as a baby?
Not yet—this baby plant is still in its early growth phase. But with time and the right conditions, it will produce large, dramatic blooms.

Is it pet safe?
Not pet safe if ingested—keep out of reach of curious paws and little hands.

Can I grow it outdoors in summer?
Yes—move it outside to a sheltered, sunny spot during the warmer months, then bring it back in before temperatures drop.

Explore more
Love weird and wonderful plants? Check out our Rare Houseplants collection or discover more sun-loving oddities on the Happy Houseplants blog—the UK’s #1 houseplant blog.