Scientific Name
Euphorbia lactea Haw.
Common Name(s)
Mottled Spurge, Frilled Fan, Elkhorn, Dragon Bones Tree, Dragon Bones, Candelabra Spurge, Candelabra Cactus, Caper Spurge, Candle Stick Tree, False Cactus, Hat Rack Cactus
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Description
Euphorbia lactea is a succulent shrub or small tree with spiny erect much-branched stems. It grows up to 16.4 feet (5 m) tall. The stems and branches are ridged, triangular or rhombic in cross-section, and up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. They are green with a conspicuously pale center, often with ornamental whitish and lime green marbled marking and black paired thorns. The tiny leaves appear at the stem tips in summer, but they quickly drop, leaving the plants leafless most of the time.
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. 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 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
This species is native to tropical Asia, mainly in India.
Forms and 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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