I think it is some kind of cactus. It has no stickers and is very large. The three blooms that are open measure the size of a dinner plate
and have 5/8" white hairs all around the edges. There are about 25 or so other blooms yet to open. How long do the blooms stay open?
Thanks for any help to identify.

Louise

It's a stapelia...don't know which one, but I'm sure someone will be along soon to give you further info....

Stapelia gigantea?

Starfish Plant (Ceropegia gigantea)

Thanks so much for the responses. So quick and so helpful. All of the related links appeared to be just like the one that I have. It really is spectacular
to see a bloom that large and unusual.
ATP is a wonderful place to spend a LOT of time - have to be careful of the time!!!

Louise

Yes it is the Gigantea, I have it here at the house, I also see it is on ebay allot.
When it's blooming don't stick your nose in it...the blow flies love it hench the name "carrion plant"

Full-sun little water, no freezing temps, flowers stay open 2-3 days, it's a succulant...

You are exactly right. This is the "carrion plant" and smells of rotted meat. The flies that it attracts pollinates the plant.

I did try the up close fragrance and it is very bad, but the smell in the air when just walking close to it seems
to be a heavy, sweet odor - makes me think of the Old Spice cologne that my husband used long ago.
I was concerned about the toxicity, so I called the poison control number. The RN who answered checked
for me and said that it wasn't poisonous.

I have grown Angel Trumpets and know I will get nauseated if I don't wear gloves or wash my hands after
handling them. So, I checked to be sure.

I have two new blooms today and a couple more to open in a few days - and many more smaller ones coming on.

Louise