Caralluma speciosa

Tropical succulent from E Africa nice in a pot, makes dramatic burgundy and gold flowers atop clumping stems. Milkweed family.

	height	1–3ft
	width	8–18in
	tolerates	Drought, Heat, Pots
	water info	This asclepiad is from the desert as such like to go totally bone dry between waterings, making them very low-maintenance. If you see your Caralluma begin to shrivel or lose firmness, it is likely totally dry and should be watered. To get good healthy growth your plant won’t want to sit around totally dried out during it’s growing season. Once it is dry water it. This plant comes from an area with summer rainfall and is actively growing during that time, when it is forgiving of overwatering errors. During winter dormancy it should be kept extra dry and will be intolerant of overwatering. Remember that if kept in a small pot your plant will want more frequent watering.
	hardy to	40F
	indoor outdoor	Indoor
	drainage	In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Requires Perfect Drainage
	fertilizing	All Purpose, Low Needs
	origin	NE Africa
	california native	No
	sunset zones	13, 23, 24, H2

Sunset Zones Map

Indoor Exposure Guide

Growing Notes

Caralluma speciosa is averse to cold conditions and it is best brought in during the winter, when temperatures drop. It can be grown outdoors in the mildest areas of Southern California, or areas there with shelter such as a covered porch.

Special Interest

The unusual flowers are a serious conversation starter.