Citation: L., Sp. Pl. 217 (1753).

Derivation: After J. B. van Stapel, a Dutch physician, died 1636.

Synonymy: Orbea Haw., Syn. Pl. Succ. 37 (1812).

Common name: None

Description:
Small stem-succulents; stems 4-angled by the prominent decurrent bases of the vestigial leaves; teeth reduced to points on the stems.

Flowers 1 or a few at the nodes, pedunculate, usually large and offensively smelling; calyx deeply 5-lobed, much smaller than the corolla; petals spreading usually from or near the base, glabrous to densely hairy; outer staminal corona of 5 lobes alternating with the anthers; inner corona of 5 lobes opposite the anthers; pollen masses ascending or subhorizontal.

Follicles fusiform; seeds comose.

Distribution:  About 100 African species.

Biology: No text

Author: Not yet available