PLANT OF THE WEEK Starfish flower

Botanical name: Stapelia gigantea.
Attributes: This relatively small plant grows only 8 inches tall but has a very large star-shaped flower of up to 1 foot across. Its growth habit is like a cactus but without thorns; its succulent leaves creep along the ground. The flower's odor is most recognizable as rotting meat. This tricks flies into laying eggs on the flower for pollination.
Bloom time: Fall, winter and spring.
Culture: Buy a healthy plant as large as possible. Provide a bright sunny window and water only when leaves feel soft. Fertilize with 20-20-20 only in spring when new growth starts. Plants can spend the summer outdoors in a pot with full sun and well-drained soil.
Decorating tips: Starfish flower is usually grown as a novelty plant. It could be used with other cacti and succulents as part of a collection.
Cost: $15 to $30, depending on size and maturity of the plant. Available at local greenhouses or nurseries specializing in unusual plants.
Source: Powell Gardens (www.powellgardens.org)