Stapelia leendertziae commonly known as Black Bells, is a striking and unusual tufted, creeping succulent with pale green, knobbly upright stems that form dense clumps over time. Its most eye-catching feature is the pendant, bell-shaped flowers, which range in colour from deep reddish-purple to almost black.

While visually stunning, the flowers emit a strong scent reminiscent of rotting meat, a clever adaptation that attracts flies for pollination. Best suited to containers or rockery plantings, this succulent thrives in a sunny, frost-free position with good drainage. It’s a perfect choice for collectors of the unusual or those seeking dramatic interest in a drought-tolerant garden.

Evergreen and frost tender, this plant benefits from protection during cold months and should be brought indoors in cooler climates.