Scientific Name
Euphorbia decaryi Guillaumin
Synonym(s)
Euphorbia decaryi var. decaryi, Euphorbia francoisii
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Description
Euphorbia decaryi is a small, shrubby succulent with swollen roots and erect to creeping stems bearing attractive, fleshy leaves tufted in rosettes at the tips of the stems. It can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall and spread by rhizomes. When exposed to intense sunlight, the green leaves take on a lovely coppery-bronze hue. They are highly undulated, folded, and with raised veins.
The unusual flowers are bell-shaped, range in color from yellow and yellow-green to reddish, and appear in summer.
Origin
Euphorbia decaryi is native to southeastern Madagascar.
Etymology
The species epithet "decaryi (de-KAR-yee)" honors Raymond Decary (1891-1973), a French botanist and ethnologist.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 10a to 11b: from 30 °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. 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.
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.
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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