Scientific Name
Euphorbia primulifolia Baker
Synonym(s)
Euphorbia primulifolia var. primulifolia, Euphorbia subapoda
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Etymology
The specific epithet "primulifolia" (pronounced "prim-yoo-lih-FOH-lee-uh") means "primula-leaved, having leaves resembling those of a Primula" and refers to the shape of the leaves of this species.
Origin
Euphorbia primulifolia is native to northern and central Madagascar.
Description
Euphorbia primulifolia is a succulent geophyte with a large tuber that merges into a short stem with a rosette of 4 to 12 dark green leaves. The tuber can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) long and up to 2.8 inches (7 cm) in diameter. The leaves are flat or undulate, measuring up to 4.4 inches (11 cm) in length and 1.6 inches (4 cm) in width. The plant usually blooms before the leaves appear.
The flowers are small and white to pink in color.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10b to 11b: from 35°F (1.7°C) to 50°F (10°C).
How to Grow and Care
Euphorbias are very easy to care for. These plants 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 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 grow them in containers or your soil is poor.
These succulents can be grown from seed, but they can be difficult to germinate (or even find). They are usually propagated by cuttings, which can be tricky due to the exuding sap. Rooting hormone is recommended for Euphorbias. They tend to grow problem-free, but a few pests and diseases are worth being alert for.
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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