Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, South Africa

Common name: Aaskelk, Aasklok, Fluweelaasblom, Rooi-aasblom, Black bells, Carrion flower, Velvet stapelia

Family: Apocynaceae (Dogbane)

Synonym: Stapelia wilmaniae

Distribution: Northeastern escarpment mountains, Swaziland

Habitat: Open areas of rocky ground with shallow soils

IUCN Red list: Not evaluated

Life form: Succulent plant

Comments: Stems are quadrangular, a factor which allows expansion and contraction to compensate without harm for any excess or shortness of fluids inside; hence they may appear flat- or sunken-sided according to the availability of water. This is the "succulence" and a storehouse for nutrients, which are crucial to their survival in harsh, xeric habitats.