Scientific Name
Euphorbia enopla Boiss.
Accepted Scientific Name
Euphorbia heptagona L.
Common Name(s)
Pincushion Euphorbia
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Etymology
The specific epithet "enopla" (pronounced "en-OH-pl-ah") means "armed; bearing spines or sharp projections" and refers to the dense, sharp spines along the ridges of the stems of this plant.
Origin
Euphorbia enopla is native to South Africa. It is not accepted as a separate species and is treated as a synonym of Euphorbia heptagona.
Description
Euphorbia enopla is a much-branched succulent shrub with ribbed stems that have decorative spines tightly arranged in rows along the ribs. The stems can reach a diameter of 1.2 inches (3 cm) and range from green to grey-green to bluish-green. They often branch out towards the upper section, forming a candelabra-like effect. The spines are red, stout, and can grow up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) long. The leaves are very small and remain on the plant only briefly 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.
Forms of Euphorbia enopla
How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia enopla
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).
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 overcare and overwatering 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 prolonged 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 Euphorbia. 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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