Description

Orbea semota var. lutea is a species of succulent plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is commonly known as Starfish Cactus or Carrion Flower due to its unique star-shaped flowers and its smell, which resembles rotting flesh.

how to grow Orbea semota var. lutea:

1. Light requirements: Orbea semota var. lutea thrives in bright, indirect light. Place the plant near a window that receives bright, filtered sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially during the morning or late afternoon, but be cautious of intense, hot midday sun.
2. Temperature: This succulent prefers moderate temperatures ranging between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but may suffer if exposed to frost or extreme heat.
3. Soil: Use a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. You can also create your own mix by combining equal parts of potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
4. Watering: Orbea semota var. lutea is a succulent that is adapted to dry conditions. It prefers infrequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the active growing season (spring and summer), water sparingly and avoid overwatering. Reduce watering during the winter dormant period, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.
5. Humidity: Orbea semota var. lutea is adapted to average household humidity levels and doesn’t require additional humidity.
6. Fertilization: This succulent doesn’t require heavy feeding. Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the correct dilution and frequency.
7. Propagation: Orbea semota var. lutea can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem cutting and allow it to callus over for a day or two. Then plant the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it slightly moist until roots develop.
8. Pruning: Pruning is generally not necessary for Orbea semota var. lutea as it maintains a compact growth habit. However, you can remove any dead or damaged parts of the plant as needed.
9. Pests and diseases: Orbea semota var. lutea is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for common succulent pests like mealybugs or spider mites. If you notice any infestation, isolate the affected plant and treat it with an appropriate insecticidal soap or neem oil.
10. Flowering: Orbea semota var. lutea produces unique star-shaped flowers with a foul odor. The flowers attract pollinators, especially flies. The smell may not be appealing to everyone, so consider the placement of the plant accordingly.

By following these guidelines, you should be able to grow and enjoy Orbea semota var. lutea (Starfish Cactus) successfully. Remember to adjust the care based on your specific growing conditions and monitor the plant’s needs regularly.

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