Euphorbia breviarticulata (False Cow Horn)

Scientific Name

Euphorbia breviarticulata Pax

Common Name(s)

False Cow Horn

Synonym(s)

Euphorbia breviarticulata var. breviarticulata

Scientific Classification

Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia

Description

Euphorbia breviarticulata is a succulent shrub high branching from the base or occasionally a shrubby tree that grows up to 20 feet (6 m) tall. The branches are fleshy, erect to spreading, 3- to 4-angled, deeply winged, up to 4.8 inches (12 cm) wide, bluish-green densely streaked with yellow-green, and armed with long paired spines. They are regularly constricted into up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) long segments, usually broader than long. The spine-shields form a continuous rounded horny grey margin. The flowers are small, bright yellow, and appear in spring.

Euphorbia breviarticulata (False Cow Horn) — *Photo via euphorbia.de*

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 10a to 11b: from 0 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Euphorbias are very easy to care for. They 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 they 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.

Euphorbia can be grown from seed, but they can be difficult to germinate (or even find). It is 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 there are a few pests and diseases to be alert for.

See more at How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia.

Origin

This species is native to Ethiopia, Somalia, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.