[Overview]
A succulent perennial.
The stems are thick with 4–6 ridges, and the ridges bear coarse teeth.
The leaves are reduced and not visible.
The flowers are somewhat funnel-shaped or bell-shaped, star-like with 5 lobes, often in two or more colors or with distinct stripes or spots, and some kinds are glossy or wrinkled.
They give off a smell of decay, which in the plant's native habitat attracts insects such as flies.
The fruit is a follicle.
[Cultivation]
Propagate from seed, by division, or by cuttings.
Plant in well-drained soil; it prefers a sunny, well-ventilated environment, but place it in partial shade in midsummer.
The growing season is May–October, and it becomes dormant in the cold season.
It is safer for it to have 7°C or higher over winter; during periods below 7°C, stop watering and let it go dormant.
It dislikes excess moisture, so in the growing season water thoroughly when the soil dries, gradually reduce watering when temperatures begin to fall, and almost stop watering in winter.
Fertilize during the growing season, applying slow-release fertilizer as a base fertilizer, and also liquid fertilizer once or twice a month except in midsummer.
Scale insects can occur.
