Scientific Name
Euphorbia enopla Boiss.
Common Name(s)
Pincushion Euphorbia
Synonym(s)
Euphorbia enopla var. enopla
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Description
Euphorbia enopla is a much-branched succulent shrub with ribbed stems with decorative spines tightly arranged in rows along the ribs. Stems are up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) in diameter and vary from green, grey-green to bluish-green. They often branch out towards the upper section, forming a candelabra-like effect. Spines are red, stout, up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) long. Leaves are very small and remain only briefly on the plant before falling off.
The male and female cyathia (flowers) are found on separate plants. The male flowers are yellow, while the female flowers are reportedly dark red.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 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. 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 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
Euphorbia enopla is native to South Africa.
Cultivars
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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