The Star Flower / Orbea variegata (L.) Haw. at home.
Image by ER’s Eyes – Our planet is so beautiful.
Orbea variegata, formerly known as Stapelia variegata, is a species of flowering succulents that will surely impress you once you find out how unique and interesting it is. A member of the Apocynaceae family, this succulent plant is native to the coastal belt of the Western Cape Province of South Africa. Although it looks very much like a cactus, Orbea variegata is not closely related to the true cactus family at all.
There is no surprise that Orbea variegata enjoys lots of popularity worldwide. This succulent is an irresistible mix of peculiar and marvellous, bringing a touch of personality to any dull spot from your surroundings. Beyond looks, it is super friendly and comes along with very few demands from its owner.
Its genus name “Orbea” comes from the Latin word “orbis”, which means disk, circle. This name refers to the more or less prominent central disk of its flowers. The specific epithet “variegata” points out the variegated petals that present multiple markings.
