diff --git a/slixmpp/features/feature_starttls/starttls.py b/slixmpp/features/feature_starttls/starttls.py
index fe793a2d..89cbb6b2 100644
--- a/slixmpp/features/feature_starttls/starttls.py
+++ b/slixmpp/features/feature_starttls/starttls.py
@@ -52,7 +52,7 @@ class FeatureSTARTTLS(BasePlugin):
         elif self.xmpp.disable_starttls:
             return False
         else:
-            self.xmpp.send(features['starttls'])
+            self.xmpp.send(stanza.STARTTLS())
             return True
 
     async def _handle_starttls_proceed(self, proceed):