SKU: 88347943790
lifesaver cactus succulent

lifesaver cactus succulent Shop 'Lifesaver Cactus

Sale price$21.44 Regular price$23.82
Save 10%

Pay in installments of $5.96 with ShopPay, AfterPay and Klarna

Shipping Estimate
USA
  • USA
  • CAN

Ships within 48 hours · Estimated delivery Jul 25 - Jul 30

Promo Codes Available:

For Your Every Summer RSVP, with Code: SUMMER15

Description

lifesaver cactus succulent Shop 'Lifesaver CactusIntroducing the lifesaver cactus, also known as Huernia zebrina. Although it is referred to as the lifesaver cactus, the vibrant, circular flowers have a central opening that looks like the hole in a lifesaver candy, hence the name. This lifesaver cactus has many other names, such as owl eyes plant, lifebuoy Huernia, carrion flower, and zebra striped Huernia. Native to South Africa, Huernia zebrina has thick, fleshy stems that grow in a creeping

Introducing the lifesaver cactus, also known as Huernia zebrina. Although it is referred to as the lifesaver cactus, the vibrant, circular flowers have a central opening that looks like the hole in a lifesaver candy, hence the name. This lifesaver cactus has many other names, such as owl eyes plant, lifebuoy Huernia, carrion flower, and zebra-striped Huernia.


Native to South Africa, Huernia zebrina has thick, fleshy stems that grow in a creeping manner.

Your stunning lifesaver can grow up to 8 inches tall and 6 inches wide.

These stems are covered in unique, dark green, triangular-shaped markings that resemble the pattern of a zebra. Hence, the plant gets its common name, "zebrina."

The red star-shaped flowers of the lifesaver cactus are truly captivating during the spring and summer.

The center of these star-shaped flowers is adorned with raised, dark red or maroon markings that resemble the shape of a lifesaver candy, hence the nickname. The intricate design adds to the allure of the plant, making it a stunning addition to any succulent collection or garden. The lifesaver cactus flowers are not only visually striking but also emit an unpleasant aroma that attracts pollinators, such as flies. The odor is frequently compared to carrion, the decaying flesh of dead animals, which is why the flower is also known as a carrion flower.

Additionally, Huernia zebrina has no reported toxic effects, making it safe to use around pets and humans.

When and How to Water Your Lifesaver Cactus

Like other succulents, the Huernia zebrina lifesaver plant has specific watering requirements that are different from those of regular houseplants. Succulents, including the lifesaver plant, are adapted to survive in arid conditions and store water in their leaves, stems, or roots.

It's important to follow a "soak and dry" method. This means that you should thoroughly water the plant until the water drains out from the bottom of the pot, and then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. It's important not to keep the soil wet all the time because this can cause root rot and other problems.

In the spring and summer, during the growing season, it's recommended to water the lifesaver cactus every 2-3 weeks. In winter, when your Huernia zebrina is in a dormant state, you can reduce the frequency and water it sparingly.

Remember, it's always better to underwater than to overwater the lifesaver plant. If in doubt, it's best to err on the side of caution and let the soil dry out before watering again. Observing your lifesaver and checking the moisture level of the soil using your finger can also help you determine when it's time to water.

Light Requirements - Where to Place Your Lifesaver Cactus

When growing your Huernia zebrina indoors, it's important to mimic its natural lighting conditions as closely as possible. Place your lifesaver plant in a location where it can receive bright, indirect sunlight for several hours a day. A south-facing window is often an excellent choice, as it provides ample light without exposing the plant to direct sunlight, which can cause sunburn.

If you don't have a south-facing window, don't worry! The lifesaver cactus can adapt to slightly lower light conditions but may grow more slowly. You can supplement its light requirements by using artificial grow lights, which can provide the necessary intensity and spectrum of light for your succulent growth.

For outdoor cultivation, this unique lifesaver succulent prefers bright, full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth and health. In its natural habitat, the lifesaver plant thrives in semi-arid regions where it receives plenty of sunlight.

It's important to note that while the lifesaver plant enjoys bright light, it's best to avoid placing it in direct sunlight for more than 6-8 hours, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause damage to your Huernia zebrina. If you notice that the leaves are turning yellow or brown, it may be a sign that the succulent is receiving too much direct sunlight.

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

When it comes to the optimal soil for your Huernia zebrina, this unique succulent thrives in well-draining soil that mimics its natural habitat. For the lifesaver plant, it's best to use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. These types of soil blends are specifically formulated to provide the right balance of moisture retention and drainage. To improve drainage, you can make your own mix by combining regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally, use our specialized potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your lifesaver cactus thrive.

When it comes to fertilizing, the lifesaver plant doesn't require heavy feeding. In fact, it's generally recommended to use a diluted, balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. During the growing season, which is typically spring, you can fertilize your lifesaver plant once a year with an equal amount of NPK (5-10-5).

Remember, it's important not to over-fertilize the lifesaver plant, as this can lead to nutrient burn and other issues. Always err on the side of caution and use a weaker concentration than what is recommended, as succulents are adapted to survive in nutrient-poor environments.

Hardiness Zone & More

When growing indoors, it thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperature fluctuations, as this can cause stress and damage to the lifesaver plant.

For outdoor cultivation, the lifesaver plant can thrive in USDA zones 9 to 11, which are regions with milder climates. These zones generally have average minimum temperatures ranging from 20 to 40 °F. If you live in a colder climate, it's best to keep the lifesaver plant indoors or provide it with protection during the colder months.

In terms of humidity, the lifesaver plant is adaptable and can tolerate a range of humidity levels. However, it generally prefers lower-humidity environments similar to its native habitat. Aim for a humidity level of around 40 to 50%, which is considered average indoor humidity. If the air in your home is particularly dry, you can increase humidity by using a humidifier or placing a tray filled with water near the plant.

Remember, providing the lifesaver plant with the right temperature and humidity conditions and appropriate hardiness zone considerations will help ensure its health and vitality.

Wildlife - Lifesaver Cactus Attracts the Following Friendly Pollinators

The Lifesaver Cactus attracts pollinators through its unique star-shaped flowers, which emit a faint carrion-like scent. This odor mimics the smell of decaying organic matter, drawing in flies, which are the primary pollinators for the plant. The distinctive yellow and red coloration of the flowers, along with their rubbery central ring, further entices these insects, encouraging them to land and facilitate pollination. 

Butterflies
Bees
Hummingbirds
Lady Bugs
Multi Pollinators
Other Birds

Toxicity: The Lifesaver Cactus is considered non-toxic to humans and pets, making it a safe choice for households with animals or young children. It is not harmful if touched or ingested in small amounts.

Propagating Lifesaver Plant

Propagating this unique lifesaver plant Huernia zebrina can be done through various methods, including stem cuttings and seed propagation. For stem cuttings, you can take a healthy stem from the plant and allow it to dry out for a few days to form a callus. Then, you can plant the stem in well-drained soil and provide it with indirect sunlight and minimal watering. Over time, new roots will develop, and a new plant will begin to grow. Seed propagation is another option, where you can collect the seeds from mature flowers and sow them in a well-draining soil mix. With patience and proper care, you can successfully propagate the lifesaver plant and expand your collection of these fascinating succulents.

Key Takeaways

  1. The Lifesaver Cactus thrives in arid conditions and requires minimal watering, making it a perfect choice for water-wise gardening and low-maintenance plant collections.
  2. Its star-shaped, yellow, and red flowers feature a raised, rubbery central ring that resembles a candy "lifesaver," giving the plant its unique common name.
  3. With a small, clumping growth habit, this succulent fits well in limited spaces like windowsills, terrariums, or small containers, adding a touch of desert charm to any spot.
  4. The Lifesaver Cactus is easily propagated through stem cuttings, allowing for effortless expansion of your collection or sharing with fellow plant enthusiasts.
  5. Despite its unusual appearance, the flowers emit a faint carrion-like scent that attracts pollinators like flies, contributing to the plant’s reproduction and the ecosystem.

The Bottom Line

Overall, the lifesaver plant Huernia zebrina is a captivating succulent that never fails to grab attention with its unique star-shaped flowers. These blooms, with their striking dark green or brownish stripes resembling a zebra pattern, add a touch of whimsy to any garden or indoor space. Taking care of the lifesaver plant is relatively easy, as it thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. Whether you choose to propagate it through stem cuttings or seeds, with a little patience and proper care, you can expand your collection of these fascinating succulents.

Shipping Notes
  • Free Standard Shipping on $100+ Orders to the USA.
  • Except Preorder products are shipped in 48 hours.
  • Delivery to the USA:
  1. Standard Shipping : 3-10 business days
  • If time is of the essence, please consider selecting expedited delivery for faster service.
Exchange/Return Notes
  • We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
  • Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
  • To process your return/exchange, please contact us at [email protected]
  • Please click here for more details>>> Return & Exchange Policy
SKU: 88347943790

Discover Niche Categories That Outsell lifesaver cactus succulent

Top-Converting Item to Boost Your Average Order

4.8 ★★★★★
Based on 26 reviews
Sort
Highest Rating
Newest First
Oldest First
Product Reviews
A
Verified Purchase
absolut_beethoven
Phoenix, US
★★★★★ 5
THE Best facial toner period!!!
Size: 6.8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
This review is for the 200ml bottle I am one of those few but very fortunate people that isn't allergic to anything, or sensitive to most soaps, cleansers and toners. Unfortunately now that I'm in my fifties my face isn't as fuss free as it once was and soaps and cleansers that were once okay, are now either too harsh for my skin or dry it out. Worse than that are those products that irritate my eyes, especially if they're meant to be used around that area. What gives with these manufacturers whose products are supposed to cleanse your face, but irritate your eyes? Of course sooner or later you're going to get some in your eyes regardless of how careful you are. Which brings me to this amazingly excellent cleanser. A more accurate description of this cleanser would a "cleansing toner" as it's not really a face wash i.e. it doesn't soap or foam up like other facial cleansers. As I'm a guy and don't wear any make up I can't vouch for its efficacy in that department. But I can vouch most enthusiastically for its ability to strip your face clean of excess oil and grime picked up during the day without leaving your face feeling dry or tight. I do use it around both my upper and lower eyelids with zero eye irritation at all. It leaves my face feeling clean and refreshed with only the slightest hint of a clean refreshing smell, so it won't interfere with your perfume or cologne. I use it twice a day as an in between facial cleanser/refresher to eliminate that grimy oily look between my daily showers. Highly recommended for doing an excellent job without irritating or drying out my skin. Try it out yourself as this could be the only skin toner that you'll ever need, and it's reasonably priced too. :)
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on October 3, 2011
E
Verified Purchase
Erika and Huy
Louisville, US
★★★★★ 5
Girlfriend approved !
Size: 13.52 Fl Oz
Works amazingly well, soothes skin, is super gentle, and removes makeup with ease
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on February 8, 2026
C
Verified Purchase
Chrissy
Dallas, US
★★★★★ 5
Holy grail for type 1 rosacea
Size: 1 Ounce (Pack of 1), Size: 1 Ounce (Pack of 1)
This has saved my face. I have type 1 rosacea and my skin has been pissed off for the last eight months straight. I have tried everything including compounded prescription creams that only made my face flare worse. I deal with a lot of flushing and burning that can be triggered by the slightest bit in temperature rise or just seemingly at random, especially at night. Since using this product my skin has calmed down drastically. It's only been a couple days, but so far I'm thinking this is a holy grail product for me. I also purchased the Glenser because the oil cleanser that I was using had fragrance and alcohol, which can be extremely irritating for rosacea. Since switching to Prequel I can honestly say my skin is so much happier and less reactive. Worth a shot if your a rosy girl like me.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on May 27, 2026
J
Verified Purchase
Jess G
Lake Worth, US
★★★★★ 5
A perfect edition to my Rosacea skincare routine
Size: 1 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Unfortunately, this doesn't fully get rid of the optical redness from my Rosacea, probably only about 30-40%. However, after using it consistently,(I'm now on my 2nd bottle, using at least twice a day), I have noticed that my skin is softer, less textured and definitely less red overall. My face gets super red especially towards the evening, but waking up in the morning I have noticed less and less redness. It kinda tingle/burns on my most sensitive areas where there's obvious inflammation, but the sensation fades as it totally absorbs into my skin. I wear it as a 2nd layer to my routine, and it wears well under makeup, just remember to moisturize after applying it, and before adding any makeup. It does also tend to pill up if you accidentally touch/rub on your face, so just be mindful of that. I am very satisfied with this serum and even gifted a bottle to my Mom. As a Rosacea Girly, I love this product and have permanently added it to my skincare routine.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on December 17, 2025
Z
Verified Purchase
ZPK
Grantham, US
★★★★★ 4
Surprisingly effective
Size: 1 Ounce (Pack of 1)
I frequently have combo skin with oily, dilated pores on my nose and dryness in other areas. I got this to address blotchy redness (my skin can be especially reactive to too much moisturizer and/or too many actives). Redness Reform definitely helps to calm the redness, but I've been really surprised to see it also calming down my dilated pores and making my skin overall much more balanced. With consistent twice daily application, I find I'm able to step up my use of retinoids and AHAs without seeing increased irritation. It's been so helpful for multiple concerns that I've already repurchased to make sure I have a new bottle on hand when this one runs out! Giving 4 stars because I wish there were more product for the price. You can definitely get away with 2 small pumps to cover the face and neck if your skin is moist/hydrated after cleansing, but I find I'm liking to use just a bit more (4 pumps or so) to get really thorough coverage and hone in on the areas that need it most. The other reason it isn't 5/5 for me is because it's too thin to actually deliver on the promise of optical correction. Yes, it's green, but it's doing very, very little short-term to camouflage redness. I do like the consistency, because it does allow a little to go a long way and gives it a higher-end application feel, but it's misleading to suggest that you'll get meaningful color correction while using this product.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on October 14, 2025

recommand products