Tropicals
Huernia zebrina
Lifesaver plant
Short succulent stems produce striking star-shaped flowers with a raised, glossy central ring. The striped blooms give this compact plant its lifesaver nickname. Despite being sold as a cactus, it is a different kind of succulent.
At a glance
- Mature size
- Height: Under 6 in. (botanical-garden reference)
- Water
- Moderate in growth; keep nearly dry in winter
- Life cycle
- Compact indoor succulent
- Bloom
- Star-shaped patterned blooms with a prominent central ring in late summer.
- Light
- Bright light; shade from hot direct sun
Sizes & prices
- 4"$18.99
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Resistance & tolerances
- Wet soil
- Avoid standing water.
Growing & care
- Soil
- Use a draining pot and fast-draining succulent mix.
- Feeding
- During spring–late summer, use cactus fertilizer or half-strength houseplant fertilizer, following the label.
- Winter
- Keep protected indoors; water sparingly during slow growth.
Sources & photo credits
Photo: Skolnik Collection · CC BY-SA 4.0
Image notes: Huernia zebrina. Available sizes and selections vary. Uncropped.
Reviewed September 26, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.