Huernia Zebrina, Lifesaver Plant

Huernia zebrina, also known as the lifesaver plant, the little owl plant, and the carrion flower, is a rare succulent that grows well as a houseplant. Most people grow this plant for the otherworldly flower that has a waxy, artificial appearance. The corolla is creamy with blood-red stripes and a deep red center.

The succulent comes from parts of Southern Africa, where it thrives in dry conditions. The plant is unassuming, with delicate green coloration in normal lighting. It tends to spread well when given the opportunity. The most notable thing about this plant is the truly bizarre flower. The shape, texture, color, and odor of the flower make it seem like something from a strange fantasy movie.

Like most succulent plants, caring for the lifesaver cactus is simple when you follow the tips we provide in this guide. You’ll learn all about the right conditions, how to propagate, and even get advice on encouraging unique flowers. This is a popular plant in botanical gardens all over the world for the absolute oddness of the flowers.

Light: Even though it looks like a cactus, this little succulent doesn’t grow well in bright, direct light. One common mistake is that people often put these out in the garden with other cactus, only to watch it wither and die. Since it is a rare and valuable plant, you want to make sure you don’t kill it with too much light. Bright, indirect light is optimal for these plants. An east or west window is ideal, but you should monitor the plant if you have it in a south window or if it gets lots of sun. Too much light is identified by the green parts of the plant turning red. This plant doesn’t grow well in high heat. More critical, though, this plant cannot tolerate cool temperatures. Any temperature below 50 degrees may kill the plant. Ideally, the huernia zebrina prefers 65- to 75-degree temperatures.

Watering: Unlike a cactus, the huernia zebrina needs regular watering. Just as important, though, the soil must dry nearly completely between waterings. This is essential because the plant will continue to absorb water as long as there is moisture to be had. Since the plant can’t stop drinking, overwatering will kill it.