Euphorbia alluaudii 'Cristata' is a rare plant that is highly prized for its sculptural shape.
Scientific Name
Euphorbia alluaudii 'Cristata'
Accepted Scientific Name
Euphorbia alluaudii Drake
Synonym(s)
Euphorbia alluaudii f. cristata, Euphorbia leucodendron f. cristata, Euphorbia leucodendron 'Cristata'
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Origin
This plant is a crested form of Euphorbia alluaudii selected in cultivation for its mutated growth.
Description
Euphorbia alluaudii 'Cristata', also known as Euphorbia leucodendron 'Cristata', is a fascinating succulent with flattened branches of irregular shape. The branches are yellowish-green and brown-dotted, where the leaves were attached before. In the summer, the plant produces tiny green leaves at the tips of the branches, which soon fall off. Each specimen has a unique shape and often displays both mutated and normal growth.
How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia alluaudii 'Cristata'
Light: Providing your Euphorbia alluaudii 'Cristata' with plenty of sunlight is important for optimal growth. Place it near a sunny window or move it to your balcony or garden during the warmer months, gradually increasing sun exposure to avoid sunburn.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil, either a commercial potting mix formulated for succulents or create your own well-draining soil.
Temperature: While high summer temperatures are not a problem, low winter temperatures can damage or kill your plant. Euphorbia alluaudii 'Cristata' grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C).
Watering: From spring to fall, water the plant when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter and give it just enough water to prevent wilting. The evening is the best time of the day for watering in the warm season.
Fertilizing: To ensure the potted plant receives sufficient nutrients, apply a balanced fertilizer in a 10-10-10 NPK formulation, diluted to 1/4 strength weekly during the growing season.
Repotting: Although your Euphorbia alluaudii 'Cristata' does not need to be repotted often, it will benefit from repotting when it outgrows its pot. The repotting is best done in early spring at the beginning of the growing season. Wear gloves, protective clothing, and appropriate eye protection when handling this plant.
Propagation: It is propagated by stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in spring or summer.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia.
Toxicity of Euphorbia alluaudii 'Cristata'
Euphorbia alluaudii 'Cristata' produces a poisonous white milky sap that may cause burns or irritation if in contact with the skin or eyes. Therefore, keeping this plant away from children and pets is best.
Links
- Back to genus Euphorbia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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