Don't know what kind of Stapelia this is, but there seems to be some problem that at least one looks a bit shriveling down to its base? Current condition: unknown soil and plastic pot came with the gift about one year ago; now receiving ~ 2 hours morning sunlight (direct from east) and indirect sunlight for the rest of the day; receive water once a week... (we are in hot, dry summer now; The accompany Kalanchoe look very happy and healthy though) Thanks for diagnose.

Both your plants are screaming "Give us more light! Give us more light!"

Daisy, Thanks but really? I thought the "shriveling" is caused by too much heat/light/dryness... Maybe putting outside facing south for longer hotter direct sunlight will make them happy? I am afraid they may be scorched under our desert-like summer... Please I am confused...

I said more light because of the way they are stretching. Yes, move them to more sun, but acclimate them slowly - it will take maybe two weeks.

The shriveling is probably due to a lack of roots. Those will grow in time.

Daisy

All right, confirmed! I'll move them out to a spot facing south to receive full/direct sunlight most of the day. Will post update later. Daisy.

Bad news: some stapelia stem tips got burned after exposed to strong afternoon sunlight. I believe the cause is the extreme heat in our desert-like area (summer time). We got triple digit temp and low teen humidity day time outside. Don't think this succulent would like the condition that most cacti would delight in though. Should have considered the difference between zone 9b from 6b (Daisy's area). The plant returns indoor now...

When you move a plant to a more sunny situation, it could take 2 weeks or more of slow acclimation. I believe I said more sun (not full sun) and slow acclimation.

My stapeliads live in a south facing greenhouse were the temps often get over 100* (today, it was 103* in there). When I introduce a plant to the menagerie, I put them in the shade for a couple weeks before moving them to a dappled sun position on the south wall. The dappled sun is created by large cacti that can take full sun.

BTW, I grew up in Sacramento, graduated from Stanislaus State University and lived in Modesto for several years before moving to Oakdale for the last 30.

Daisy

Oh well, guess without gradual transition my plants suffered sudden shock in this summer time... all my fault.