Orbea Succulents = Rewarding Bloomers
I have talked about my love for Stapelia and Huernia succulents, I've even showcased the magnificent Stapelia grandiflora bloom from years of my own photos... But now, ladies and gentleman, I turn my dreamy gaze towards Orbeas! Sigh... It never ends does it? Nature never ceases to amaze, and if you try (even just a little), your garden can become a place of wonder. No you're not tripping on mushrooms, it's just the Orbea flowers in bloom! Also, that illusive smell of trash on the wind is coming from those remarkable flowers, so as to attract those dumpster lovin' flies for pollination. Never fear, the smell pales in comparison to the rewarding blooms, and you can only smell it when you get up close and personal.
Family: Apocynaceae
Scientific Name: Order: Gentianales
Higher classification: Dogbanes
Native to Africa
Tips: My Stapelias, Huernias, and Orbeas do best when left alone in nature, meaning: growing in pots that are out in part shade to full sun in South Florida, withstanding the seasonal downpours and intense humidity. Make sure you plant them in well draining soil, I suggest mixing in plenty of perlite and lava rock pebbles.
If they receive too much water and sit in overly moist soil for too long, they are very susceptible to root rot - parts of the plant turn to mush. In that case, immediately remove any healthy segments and leave on a piece of paper towel or newspaper in a dry spot to callous off before replanting.
This plant shrivels and loses its vibrancy when in need of water, so make sure to give it a good drink during long period of drought and hot summers. Otherwise, best to let nature do its thing. Don't hesitate to contact me with any questions, I'd be happy to help as best I can. So far I only have two Orbeas, Orbea variegata and Orbea speciosa...
Orbea variegata:
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| Orbea variegata |
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| Orbea variegata |
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| Orbea variegata in bloom |
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| Orbea variegata Succulent Flower |
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| Orbea variegata Succulent Flower |
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| Orbea variegata flower |
The flowers that these succulent families produce are pretty spectacular, every time one blooms it's like the first time - never gets old! If you have the chance to snatch up a Stapelia, Huernia, or Orbea succulent (or five) at your local nursery - do it! They're fast growers, easy to care for, and extremely rewarding bloomers.
Orbea speciosa:
Related posts:
Orbea speciosa:
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| Orbea speciosa Succulent Flower |
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| Orbea speciosa |
(All images in this post are my personal photographs and copyright protected, please do not use without permission.)