Caralluma arabica

Perennial, succulent, erect, up to 30cm, 30-50cm across. Stems branching, grey-green with white bloom, roughly quadrangular in cross section with crenellated edges. Inflorescence a tight round cluster up to 3 cm across directly on end of stem. Flowers 5-petalled, maroon with a shiny white spot in the centre, hairy at the tips. In centre of flowers a shiny white spot. Carrion-like smell attracts flies. Fruits cylindrical, smooth, paired, on 0.5cm short stalks, erect, up to 10cm. Seeds dark brown, with a tuft of long hairs. Flowering Feb.-May.