Scientific Name
Euphorbia guiengola W.R.Buck & Huft
Common Name(s)
String of Stars
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Etymology
The specific epithet "guiengola (GWEN-go-la)" refers to the limestone formation of Cerro Guiengola in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, where this species grows naturally.
Origin
Euphorbia guiengola is native to Mexico (Chiapas and Oaxaca).
Description
Euphorbia guiengola is a rare sprawling succulent with branched stems that bear small green leaves and many white flowers with a red center. It is a deciduous plant that drops all leaves in winter but continues to bloom, hence its common name.
How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia guiengola
Light: Most Euphorbias are sun lovers, but some will tolerate partial shade. Place your indoor Euphorbias on windows with southern or southeastern exposure.
Soil: Euphorbias require well-drained soil. They even thrive in poor, dry soils. Use a commercial mixture formulated for cacti and succulents, or make your own potting mix.
Hardiness: Euphorbia guiengola can withstand temperatures as low as 35 to 50 °F (1.7 to 10 °C), USDA hardiness zones 10b to 11b.
Watering: Succulent Euphorbias can survive drought, but that does not mean they need it. From spring to fall, water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter. Give them just enough water to prevent wilting.
Fertilizing: Every Euphorbia will benefit from fertilizer. Apply a balanced fertilizer in a 10-10-10 NPK formulation, diluted to 1/4 strength weekly during the growing season.
Repotting: Euphorbias do not need to be repotted every year. However, when your Euphorbia is outgrowing its pot, it is time to repot the plant in a larger pot and give it a fresh potting mix.
Propagation: The easiest and fastest method of propagation for many species is by using cuttings. Euphorbias can also be grown from seeds, but they can be difficult to germinate and even hard to find.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia.
Toxicity of Euphorbia guiengola
All Euphorbias produce a toxic white milky sap and can irritate the skin and eyes. Therefore, keeping the plants away from children and pets is best.
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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