Lifesaver Cactus Care Information: How to Plant and Grow Huernia zebrina
The lifesaver cactus (Huernia zebrina) is a unique and rare succulent with stunning features that can excite anyone. This plant produces star-like yellow flowers usually patterned with wine-red zebra stripes and a conspicuously thick rubbery ring at the center that resembles a lifesaver candy.
Native to Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, it is a beautiful plant for a porch, patio, or window. I have mine suspended in a hanging basket and all the flowers come out from late spring to early fall. However, they smell like decaying flesh (carrion).
In the right conditions, lifesaver plant blooms last for a week or so. In the flu glare of the sun, I noticed its fleshy stems turning from rich green to reddish. So I prefer keeping it in a spot where it gets partial sun in the morning and afternoon.
Common names | Lifesaver cactus, little owl eyes, carrion flower |
Botanical name | Huernia zebrina |
Plant type | Perennial succulent |
Mature size | 6 in wide, 6-8 in tall |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to part shade |
Hardiness Zones | 9b-11 (USDA) |
Soil type | Well-draining and slightly acidic |
Bloom time | Spring and summer |

How to grow a lifesaver cactus
Huernia zebrina is an easy plant to grow and take care of. Additionally, it has no reported poisoning effects, making it safe around pets and humans. The carrion-like smell during the flowering season attracts pollinators such as flies.
How to water
Like most succulents, the lifesaver cactus has low watering needs. The cactus can store water in its succulent stems making it survive in arid conditions. As such, it needs less watering as compared to other plants. Overwatering can cause root rot and other fungal issues.
During the growing season in spring and summer, it’s recommended to water every 2-3 weeks. In winter when the lifesaver cactus is dormant, you should cut back on frequency and watering sparingly, averagely once per month when the soil is completely dry.
You can always insert your finger in the soil to check if it’s dry enough. When watering, you must thoroughly water the plant until the water drains out from the bottom of the pot. Remember, to empty any saucer you have to prevent root rot.
Light requirements
Lifesaver cactus thrives in full sun to partial shade. When growing indoors, place it in a location where it can receive bright, indirect sunlight for 6-8 hours per day. An eastern- or western-facing window can be a perfect spot as it provides enough light without exposing the plant to direct sunlight.
Direct sunlight can scorch the stems and cause sunburn. If you notice the stems are turning to reddish, it’s a sign that your lifesaver cactus is receiving too much sunlight. However, if this plant is not receiving enough light, it can grow slowly and spindly.
When growing in low light conditions, it’s best to supplement its light requirements by using artificial grow lights.
Soil and fertilizer needs
A cactus or succulent mix is the right soil for growing Huernia zebrina. This unique plant prefers well-draining soil for healthy growth. To improve drainage, you can make your own mix by combining equal parts of regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand.
Although not a heavy feeder, you can add a well-decomposed compost manure to boost growth. During the growing season, in spring and summer, you can fertilize your lifesaver succulent once per month with a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Temperature and humidity
Carrion flowers thrive in warm temperatures that range from 60 to 80°F. In regions with milder climates, it can thrive in USDA zones 9b to 11. Once temperatures drop below 50 degrees F, it is important to bring the plant indoors to prevent it from frost damage.
Lifesaver plants can adapt to a range of humidity levels as long as it’s similar to their native habitats. When growing indoors, aim for 40 to 50% humidity. If the air in your home gets extremely dry, you can boost humidity by placing a tray filled with water near the plant.
Potting and repotting
Repotting Huernia zebrina isn’t necessary as the plant doesn’t easily outgrow its container. However, you may replace the soil every 3 to 5 years to provide more nutrients to the plant. When potting or repotting, use a pot with drainage holes at the bottom.
Pruning requirements
Lifesaver cactus don’t really need pruning unless you want a smaller plant. I had to do it when I needed it to fit in my succulent terrarium. If you need to trim, sterilize your pruning tools to kill off pathogens that can cause plant diseases. You can save the cuttings and use them to grow new plants.
How to propagate a lifesaver cactus
If you are planning to expand your collection, you can always propagate your lifesaver plant through stem cuttings or by division. They are all straightforward methods but the latter needs a plant to have offsets. Either way, the best time to propagate is during the growth season in spring.
Here is how to propagate Huernia zebrina using cuttings:
- Choose a stem that’s firm and free of pests or diseases.
- Use a sterilized knife or pair of scissors to cut a piece of stem.
- Let the cut end dry and callus over for a few days to prevent rot.
- Plant the cutting in a small pot filled with well-draining cactus or succulent soil.
- Water sparingly to keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy.
- Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light.
- Be patient as you wait for the roots to develop. This can take a few weeks.
- Once you see new growth, follow the regular care requirements.
If your plant has some pups, you can effortlessly propagate through the division method. Carefully separate the offset from the parent plant and place it in a small pot filled with cactus or succulent soil. Mist the soil and keep the pot in a bright indirect light.
Common problems and diseases
The lifesaver plant is generally resistant to pests, deer, and common houseplant diseases. However, without proper care, this succulent can be susceptible to a number of issues including the following:
Root rot
Overwatering the lifesaver plant or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot. This is a serious condition that can cause roots to become mushy and black. As a result, the plant will start shriveling due to lacking of important supplies including water, air, and nutrients.
If you suspect root rot, cut off the affected roots and repot the cactus in fresh well-draining soil. To avoid this problem, it is important to ensure that your plant’s soil dries out completely between waterings. Additionally, the pot should have drainage holes at the bottom.
Plant shriveling can also be a sign of underwatering. Lifesaver cactus is drought-tolerant but it still requires proper watering. However, it is better to underwater than overwater. If your plant is extremely thirsty, just water in thoroughly and it will begin to regain back to normal.
Insect pests
Mealybugs or scale insects can infest your lifesaver plant resulting in poor growth. These insects have a way of attaching to the plant as they feed on sap. They usually hide under the stems making it difficult to spot. If discovered, wash them off with a strong strand of water or use neem oil.
Sunburn
Too much sunlight may scald the stems and prevent the cactus from flowering. Brown or yellow spots on leaves and sometimes the whole plant turning reddish is a sign of sunburn. The lifesaver succulent prefers bright, indirect light. So, place it in a spot with filtered sunlight.
Final thought
The lifesaver cactus is a low-maintenance plant making it suitable for any garden. With its small climbing growth, it fits well in limited spaces such as terrariums, or small containers. The star-shaped, yellow, and red flowers with a rubber-like burgundy ring in the center are a major captivating feature. However, they produce a faint carrion-like smell that attracts pollinators.

My name is Diane M Lewik, and I am the founder of this website. I am a degree holder in plant biology from the University of California – Berkeley. Over the years, I have cultivated a vast collection of succulents and I have learned a great deal about how to grow and care for these unique plants. Feel free to ask any questions in the comment section below.