Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' is an impressive, slow-growing succulent known for its stunning white and green marbled branches, which have an architectural appearance. This plant lacks chlorophyll, which is why its stems do not have the typical green coloration. However, it may occasionally revert or partially revert to the normal form of Euphorbia lactea.
Taxonomy of Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost'
Scientific Name
Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost'
Common Name(s)
White Ghost, White Ghost Cactus
Synonym(s)
Euphorbia lactea 'Grey Ghost'
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Etymology
The specific epithet "lactea" (pronounced "lak-TAY-uh") means "milky; containing or resembling milk" and refers to the milky latex that is secreted when this species, like all other Euphorbias, is injured.
The cultivar epithet 'White Ghost' refers to the plant's lack of chlorophyll, resulting in a white, "ghostly" appearance.
Forms of Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost'
Origin of Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost'
Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' is a cultivar of Euphorbia lactea.
Description of Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost'
Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' is an eye-catching succulent shrub or small tree with 3- or 4-angled, almost entirely white branches with pairs of blackish or brown spines along the ridges. It grows more slowly and reaches a smaller height than Euphorbia lactea, usually around 10 feet (3 m). The branches are mainly white to creamy-white with a few greyish-green speckles and streaks. They curve gracefully upwards in a candelabra shape and can reach up to 2 inches (5 cm) thick. Although the plant produces tiny white leaves at the branch tips in the summer, they quickly fall off, leaving it usually leafless.
How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost'
Light: For optimal growth, your Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' needs plenty of sunlight. During the warmer months, place it near a sunny window or move it to your balcony or garden, gradually increasing its exposure to avoid sunburn.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil, either a commercial potting mix formulated for succulents or create your own well-draining soil.
Temperature: While high summer temperatures are not a problem, low winter temperatures can damage or kill your plant. Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F (-1.1°C to 10°C).
Watering: From spring to fall, water the plant when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter and give it just enough water to prevent wilting. The evening is the best time to water in the warm season.
Fertilizing: To ensure the potted plant receives sufficient nutrients, apply a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer at 1/4 strength weekly during the growing season.
Repotting: Although Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' does not need to be repotted often, it will benefit from repotting when it outgrows its pot. Repotting is best done in early spring at the beginning of the growing season. Wear gloves, protective clothing, and appropriate eye protection when handling this plant.
Propagation: This plant can be propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in spring or summer.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia.
Toxicity of Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost'
Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' produces a poisonous white milky sap that may cause burns or irritation if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. Therefore, keeping this plant away from children and pets is best.
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Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Euphorbia.
- Explore all plants within the family Apocynaceae.