Stapelia Leendertziae Cristata
Stapelia Leendertziae Cristata is a fascinating and rare crested form of the classic species, highly sought after by collectors for its crested growth habit. Unlike the standard Stapelia Leendertziae, which develops upright and angular stems, the cristata version forms compact, undulating crests that give the plant a sculptural and almost surreal appearance. Each specimen is unique: no two develop exactly the same shapes, making it a living piece of art.
The green stems, sometimes tinged with purple under strong light, are thick and fleshy. They develop irregular waves and fans that create a striking silhouette in succulent collections. Like all stapelias, it has no true leaves, storing water directly in its stems, which makes it perfectly adapted to dry climates.
The flowering of Stapelia Leendertziae Cristata is just as spectacular as that of the typical species. It produces large bell-shaped flowers, deep purple to reddish-brown, often hairy and with the characteristic scent.
🌤️ Bright indirect light: Ideal indoors near an east- or south-facing window.
🌞 Gentle sun: A few hours of morning sun enhance its coloration.
⚠️ Tip: Too much direct sun burns the stems, while too much shade slows growth.
🌱 Spring / summer: Water every 2 to 3 weeks, allowing the substrate to dry between waterings.
🍂 Autumn / winter: Limit to once per month, or none during dormancy.
⚡ Tip: A mix enriched with perlite or pozzolana protects against excess moisture.
🌞 Ideal: Between 20 °C and 28 °C.
❄️ Minimum: May tolerate occasional 5 °C but never frost.
🏠 Tip: In cold climates, grow in pots and bring indoors for winter.
🪨 Recommended substrate: Mix of cactus soil and coarse sand.
💡 Fertilizer: In summer, monthly liquid cactus fertilizer encourages beautiful flowering.
🌸 Period: Summer to autumn.
🎨 Color: Large bell-shaped flowers, purple to dark brown.
🕑 Duration: Each flower lasts a few days, but successive blooms extend the decorative effect.
