Euphorbia inermis (Green Crown)

Scientific Name

Euphorbia inermis Mill.

Common Names

Green Crown, Medusa's Head

Synonyms

Euphorbia inermis var. inermis, Euphorbia viperina

Scientific Classification

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

Description

Euphorbia inermis is a many-branched succulent with erect, up to 10 inches (25 cm) long branches, radiating like fingers from a central stem. It grows up to 20 inches (50 cm) in diameter. When it is in bloom, the tip of the branches is covered with fragrant pure white flowers. This species is one of the caudex-forming Euphorbias, very similar to Euphorbia esculenta and Euphorbia caput-medusae.

Euphorbia inermis - Green Crown, Medusa's Head — *Photo via cactuspro.com*

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °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. If you are growing them in containers or your soil is poor, feed with a half-strength fertilizer monthly.

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.

See more at How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia.