Carrion Flowers, a name which, on account of their smell resembling that of putrid meat, has been given to the flowers of many species of Stapelia, a genus of Asclepiadææ, which is otherwise remarkable for the succulent development of the cellular tissue of the stem and reduction of the leaves, resulting in a general aspect like that of the Cactus family. There are about 100 species, all natives of the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers are often large and beautifully marked, but the carrion stench is very strong. They attract carrion flies, which may even lay their eggs in the flowers, and by these visitors it would appear that cross-fertilisation is effected. The name carrion flower is also given in some parts of the United States to Smilax herbacea, a liliaceous plant.