Scientific Name
Euphorbia ritchiei subsp. nyambensis (S.Carter) Bruyns
Synonym(s)
Monadenium ritchiei subsp. nyambense
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Etymology
The subspecific epithet "nyambensis" (pronounced "nyam-BEN-sis") means "of or from Nyambeni Hills" and refers to the origin of this subspecies, Nyambeni Hills, a scenic, lush volcanic mountain range in Meru County, Kenya.
Origin
Euphorbia ritchiei subsp. nyambensis is native to Kenya. It grows on rocky slopes in Meru County at an elevation of about 3,780 feet (1,150).
Description
Euphorbia ritchiei subsp. nyambensis, also known as Monadenium ritchiei subsp. nyambense, is a dwarf succulent that branches above ground to form a compact clump. This subspecies is quite distinct from Euphorbia ritchiei subsp. ritchiei. It is more branched, with shorter stems and shorter, rounded tubercles arranged in tight spirals. The leaves, when present, are smooth, light green, often with a purple hue, and can measure up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) long.
The stem tips are adorned with delightful orangish-pink cyathia with a deep red margin, usually in late summer and fall. The cyathia can reach up to 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) in length and 0.2 inches (5 mm) in diameter.
How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia ritchiei subsp. nyambensis
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 11a to 11b: from 40°F (4.4°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. In fact, more die from overwatering 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 tolerate long periods of drought. 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 if your soil is poor, feed them with half-strength fertilizer monthly.
Euphorbia can be grown from seed, but germination can be difficult (or even hard to find). It is usually propagated by cuttings. This can be tricky because of the exuding sap. Rooting hormone is recommended with Euphorbia. 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.
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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