Scientific Name
Euphorbia avasmontana Dinter
Common Name(s)
Slender Candelabra Euphorbia, Mountain Milk-bush, Avas Euphorbia
Synonym(s)
Euphorbia avasmontana var. avasmontana, Euphorbia hottentota, Euphorbia kalaharica, Euphorbia sagittaria, Euphorbia venenat, Euphorbia volkmanniae
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Description
Euphorbia avasmontana is a cactus-like succulent with many branches that arise from the base bunched closely together. The columnar stems have 5 to 7 ribs and can grow up to 6.6 feet (2 m) tall and 2.8 inches (7 cm) in diameter. The leaves are small and dropping off very soon. The spines are straight, paired, and can measure up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) long.
Flowering appears in short cymes of yellow cyathia.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Euphorbias are very easy to care for. These plants require a little pampering to become established, but once they are, they are self-sufficient. In fact, more die from too much care and watering than from neglect. Euphorbias need well-draining soil and lots of sunlight. They are not particular about soil pH but cannot tolerate wet soil. Unlike most succulents, Euphorbia does not handle long periods of drought well. It may need weekly watering during the summer. Water whenever the soil is dry several inches below the surface. Water deeply, but don't let them sit in wet soil, which can cause root rot. Add some organic matter or fertilizer to the planting hole. Feed with a half-strength fertilizer monthly if you are growing them in containers or your soil is poor.
These succulents can be grown from seed, but they can be difficult to germinate (or even find). They are usually propagated by cuttings. This can be tricky because of the exuding sap. Rooting hormone is recommended with Euphorbias. They tend to grow problem-free, but a few pests and diseases are to be alert for.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia.
Origin
Euphorbia avasmontana is native to Namibia and South Africa.
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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