Introducing the Persian carpet flower, known as Edithcolea grandis, which is a fascinating species of the Edithcolea genus. Native to Tropical Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, the Persian carpet flower plant is highly sought after by succulent enthusiasts for intricate patterns on its leaves that resemble a Persian rug. 

Apart from the common name Persian Carpet Flower, the  Edithcolea grandis has several other common names such as Starfish Flower, Carrion Flower, and False Cactus. These names are derived from the plant's resemblance to a starfish and the foul odor emitted by its flowers, which attracts pollinators like flies. 

Edithcolea grandicus is a popular plant in many desert gardens worldwide, with a purple-reddish pattern, forming brown to green-brown stems with pickles.

The plant has leafless, decumbent, sharp-toothed branched stems and can grow up to 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.

This bush-shaped plant remains relatively compact, making it suitable for small pots or containers.

The flowers of Edithcolea grandis are one of its most captivating aspects.

During the spring, the star-shaped flowers blooms and have a striking color combination of yellow, maroon, and purple. The flowers have a pungent odor similar to that of rotting meat, which attracts flies for pollination. While the smell may be unpleasant to some, it adds to the plant's unique charm. 

Edithcolea grandis can be propagated through stem cuttings or by seeds. Stem cuttings should be taken during the growing season and allowed to callus before planting in well-draining soil. Seeds can be sown in a mixture of sand and perlite and kept in a warm, sunny location. With proper Edithcolea grandis care, it can grow into a unique and stunning succulent plant that will be a beautiful addition to any collection.   

Watering Needs 

Like other succulents, your Persian Carpet Flower has adapted to survive in dry conditions. As a result, it has low to moderate watering needs. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it's best to be cautious. 

To water Persian carpet flowers, it's recommended to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Before watering, check the moisture level in the soil by inserting your finger about an inch deep. If it feels dry, then it's time to water. But it's better to wait a little while longer if it still feels a little wet. 
Watering should only be done directly on the soil; do not wet the leaves or stems. By doing this, rot and fungal infections may be avoided. 

Light Requirements 

When growing indoors, the Persian carpet flower prefers bright, indirect light. It thrives in a spot where it can receive plenty of bright, filtered sunlight throughout the day. Placing it near a south or west-facing window is usually a good choice. If you don't have access to bright natural light, you can also use artificial grow lights, specifically designed for indoor plants, to provide the necessary light. 

If you are growing outdoors, Edithcolea grandis loves basking in the sun. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, so it's ideal to place it in a location where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. However, it's important to note that this plant can be sensitive to intense, scorching sunlight, especially during the hottest hours of the day. So, if you live in an area with extremely hot summers, providing light shade during the peak afternoon hours can be beneficial. 

Remember, finding the right balance of light is essential for the health and growth of your succulent plant. Observing how your plant responds to different light conditions and making adjustments accordingly will help you create the perfect environment for it to thrive. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The Persian carpet flower plant prefers sandy, well-drained soil, as excess moisture in regular potting soil can promote root and stem rot. Planet Desert specializes in succulents and has specialized succulent potting soil that includes an organic substrate with mycorrhizae to help with the growth of a healthy root system to help your succulents thrive. As an okay alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil. 

As for fertilizing, Edithcolea grandis doesn't require heavy feeding. A balanced (5-10-5), water-soluble NPK fertilizer formulated for succulents can be applied during the growing season, which is typically spring. To determine the appropriate dilution ratio and application frequency, refer to the fertilizer's packaging instructions. Remember, it's always better to under-fertilize than to over-fertilize, as succulents are sensitive to excess nutrients. 

A general guideline is to fertilize Edithcolea grandis once a year during the active growing season. During the dormant period in fall and winter, it's best to avoid fertilizing altogether, as the plant's growth slows down. 

Hardiness Zones & More

When growing indoors, the Edithcolea grandis prefers warm temperatures similar to its native habitat. It thrives in average room temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F. It's important to avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperature fluctuations and drafts, as it can be sensitive to sudden changes. Maintaining a stable and comfortable indoor temperature will help keep your Persian carpet flower happy and healthy. 

For outdoor cultivation, the Persian carpet flower Edithcolea grandis is generally well-suitable for USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11, which are characterized by mild to warm temperatures year-round. However, it's important to protect it from prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F or frost, as it can be sensitive to cold. 

If you live in a colder climate, you can still enjoy the beauty of a Persian carpet flower by growing it as a houseplant or in containers that can be moved indoors during the colder months. This way, you can provide the necessary warmth and protection to ensure its survival. 

The Persian carpet flower prefers low to moderate humidity levels, similar to the arid conditions of its native habitat. It can tolerate average household humidity levels, but it's important to avoid excessively humid environments, as this can lead to issues such as fungal diseases. 

Final Thoughts 

Overall, the Persian Carpet Flower (Edithcolea grandis) is a stunning succulent with unique features that make it a standout in any collection. Its star-shaped rosette of fleshy, spiny stems gives it a carpet-like appearance, hence the name. The vibrant yellow, maroon, and purple flowers add a striking touch, although their smell may not be for everyone. To care for Edithcolea grandis, provide it with plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil. Water sparingly and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. This fascinating plant is sure to be a conversation starter and a beautiful addition to any succulent garden. 

We think you will love this plant – order your very own Persian carpet flower today and start enjoying its beauty in no time!