Lifesaver plants prefer bright light or partial shade. Too much sun causes stems to develop protective reddish or purple pigmentation and can actually scald the stems. Too little light leads to weak, thin growth with decreased flower production. In winter, the plant hardly needs water at all, just once per month on average. In spring through summer, water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch. Make sure any saucer you have is emptied of water to prevent root rot. As with most succulents, Stapelia plants like light, airy, well-drained soil.