Zulu Giant: The Spectacular (But Smelly) Succulent That Commands Attention
Meet the Zulu Giant (Stapelia gigantea), a succulent that’s guaranteed to be a conversation starter in your garden – though perhaps not always for the reasons you’d expect! This remarkable plant produces some of the largest flowers in the succulent world, but there’s a catch that makes it as notorious as it is beautiful.
What Makes the Zulu Giant Special
The Zulu Giant, also known by its scientific name Stapelia gigantea, is a perennial succulent that belongs to the forb family – meaning it’s a non-woody plant that persists year after year. Originally from South Africa, this eye-catching plant has made its way to Hawaii, where it has established itself and reproduces naturally in the wild.
What sets this plant apart is its absolutely massive star-shaped flowers, which can reach an impressive 16 inches across. These pale yellow blooms are decorated with intricate maroon markings that create stunning geometric patterns. However, here’s where things get interesting (and a bit smelly) – these gorgeous flowers emit a scent that mimics rotting meat to attract their preferred pollinators: flies!
Where You’ll Find Zulu Giants
While native to South Africa’s Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, Stapelia gigantea has found a home in Hawaii, where it grows as a non-native species that reproduces spontaneously in the wild.
Growing Conditions and Care
If you’re considering adding a Zulu Giant to your garden, here’s what you need to know:
- Climate: Thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11 and cannot tolerate frost
- Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Requires excellent drainage – soggy soil is this plant’s enemy
- Water: Extremely drought tolerant once established; water sparingly
- Space: Can spread several feet wide, so give it room to grow
Perfect Garden Settings
The Zulu Giant shines in specific garden styles:
- Desert and xeriscaping projects
- Succulent and cactus collections
- Rock gardens
- Mediterranean-style landscapes
- Container gardens (perfect for moving indoors during cold weather)
The Pollinator Paradox
While the Zulu Giant does attract pollinators, they’re not the butterflies and bees most gardeners hope for. The carrion scent specifically draws flies, which are the plant’s natural pollinators. This makes it an interesting addition for those curious about unusual pollination strategies, but perhaps not ideal near outdoor dining areas!
Planting and Care Tips
Growing Zulu Giants successfully is surprisingly straightforward:
- Plant in spring after any frost danger has passed
- Ensure drainage by adding sand or gravel to heavy soils
- Water deeply but infrequently – let soil dry completely between waterings
- Protect from frost by growing in containers that can be moved indoors
- Fertilize sparingly with a low-nitrogen, succulent-specific fertilizer
- Be patient – flowers typically appear on mature plants during warmer months
Should You Grow Zulu Giant?
The Zulu Giant is an excellent choice for experienced succulent enthusiasts and anyone looking to add dramatic flair to drought-tolerant gardens. However, consider these factors:
Grow it if: You love unique plants, don’t mind the occasional unpleasant smell, have well-draining soil, and live in a frost-free or nearly frost-free area.
Consider alternatives if: You prefer fragrant flowers, have heavy clay soil, experience regular frosts, or want to support native ecosystems with indigenous plants.
Native Alternatives to Consider
Since Stapelia gigantea isn’t native to most areas where it’s grown, consider exploring native succulents and drought-tolerant plants in your region. Native plants support local wildlife, require less water once established, and are naturally adapted to your local climate conditions.
The Zulu Giant certainly earns its name with those spectacular oversized blooms, making it a worthy addition to the right garden setting. Just remember to plant it downwind from your patio – your nose will thank you!
