Apteranthes europaea (Gussone) Plowes
European stapeliad
Apteranthes europaea is the only stapeliad native to Europe, distributed in the Mediterranean basin from Spain and Italy to Greece, Morocco, Israel, and Turkey. Its angular 4-ribbed succulent stems bear no true leaves and produce star-shaped 1–2 cm brownish-purple flowers with yellow markings, emitting a carrion odor to attract fly pollinators. It is legally protected in several European countries.
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© Ceropegius, via Wikimedia Commons
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Apteranthes |
| Growth Habit | Perennial herbaceous succulent forming low clumps of erect to semi-erect stems 10–30 cm tall. |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable to Endangered in parts of its European range; Least Concern globally. Protected in Spain (Red Book) and several Mediterranean countries. |
| pH Target | 7.0–8.5 |
| Type | Calcareous, rocky, very well-drained. Natural habitat in rock crevices and dry stony soils. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Succulent, angular with 4 prominent ribs, grayish-green, without true leaves, 10–30 cm tall and 1–2 cm in diameter.
ecoStar-shaped, 1–2 cm diameter, 5 triangular brownish-purple petals with yellow spots and bands, complex central corona, carrion odor.
ecoShallow fibrous root system; susceptible to rot if overly wet.
ecoPaired follicles that on maturity release plumed wind-dispersed seeds.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Calcareous, rocky, very well-drained. Natural habitat in rock crevices and dry stony soils.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
K
W
Every 3–4 years; handle superficial roots carefully.
Very diluted mineral fertilizer (quarter dose) once a year, in midsummer at peak growth.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Mildly toxic if ingested; latex may cause skin irritation. Keep away from children and pets.
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Plant Health
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"The only stapeliad species native to mainland Europe. Summer flowering produces the characteristic carrion odor attracting blowflies of the genus Calliphora and Sarcophaga as pollinators. Cultivation requires completely dry winters; the main cause of loss is winter rot from moisture."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.