Any of various low-growing, spineless, succulent plants of the genus Stapelia (family Apocynaceae) native to Africa and bearing large, hairy flowers which are shaped like a starfish and frequently smell of rotting flesh.
Origin
Mid 19th century.
Definition of starfish flower in US English:
starfish flower
noun
Any of various low-growing, spineless, succulent plants of the genus Stapelia (family Apocynaceae) native to Africa and bearing large, hairy flowers which are shaped like a starfish and frequently smell of rotting flesh.