Scientific Name
Euphorbia meloformis subsp. valida (N.E.Br.) G.D.Rowley
Synonym(s)
Euphorbia valida
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Etymology
The subspecific epithet "valida" (pronounced "val-EE-duh") means "strong," "robust," or "vigorous". It likely refers to the stems of this plant, which are often larger or more strongly developed than those of the typical Euphorbia meloformis.
Origin
Euphorbia meloformis subsp. valida is native to South Africa (Cape Province). It is not accepted as a separate subspecies and is treated as a synonym of Euphorbia meloformis.
Description
Euphorbia meloformis subsp. valida, also known as Euphorbia valida, is a dwarf succulent with spherical stems that have obscure tubercles joined in 8 to 12 attractively striped ribs. The stems can grow up to 4.7 inches (12 cm) in diameter and occasionally produce a few offsets at the base.
Although it is treated as a form of Euphorbia meloformis, this plant has more persistent peduncles, and the mature plants are much taller than Euphorbia meloformis. In addition, the stripes on the ribs are not as prominent as those of Euphorbia meloformis. This plant is also very similar to Euphorbia obesa but has yellow flowers on long peduncles that dry, become woody, and remain on the stem.
How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia meloformis subsp. valida
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°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 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 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. If you are growing them in containers or your soil is poor, feed them with a half-strength fertilizer monthly.
Euphorbia can be grown from seed, but they can be difficult to germinate (or even find). Therefore, it is usually propagated by cuttings.
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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