Brachystelma foetidum Schltr.
Fetid Brachystelma
South African tuberous geophyte whose flowers emit a particularly strong and unpleasant odour (foetidum = fetid in Latin) to attract flies and other dipterans as pollinators. The flowers are relatively large for the genus, with markedly reflexed corolla lobes in reddish-brown to black.
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© Dave Richardson, CC BY 4.0
CC BY 4.0
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Brachystelma |
| Growth Habit | Seasonal herbaceous geophyte; annual stems 15–35 cm; globose tuber 5–12 cm in diameter |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC) |
| pH Target | 5.5–7.0 |
| Type | Sandy-loam, fast-draining |
Origin & Habitat
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy-loam, fast-draining
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
T
B
Every 4–5 years
Very dilute mineral fertilizer (1/4 dose) once a month in spring-summer
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Toxic if ingested; not documented for medicinal use
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Plant Health
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"Deceit pollination (sapromyiophily) is an evolutionary strategy shared with Stapelia and other Asclepiadoideae; the plant offers no real reward to the pollinator. Described by Rudolf Schlechter in 1895."
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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.