Duvalia

Morphological Summary

Duvalia is a genus of succulents in the family Apocynaceae (subfamily Asclepiadoideae), closely related to Stapelia and Orbea. It comprises 15–20 species of low-growing, angular, leafless fleshy-stemmed plants native to southern Africa — primarily South Africa and Namibia, with some species extending to Somalia. Their small, star-shaped flowers are often foul-smelling, mimicking carrion to attract fly pollinators. The elaborate annular central corona is the genus's hallmark, particularly striking in D. elegans. In cultivation they are prized by stapeliad enthusiasts for their exotic flowers and easy care.