Scientific Name
Euphorbia tubiglans Marloth ex R.A.Dyer
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Description
Euphorbia tubiglans is a dwarf succulent with a thick, fleshy rootstock. The main stem produces a cluster of 2 to 5 upright, columnar branches that grow up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) long (often longer in cultivation) and up to 0.8 inch (2 cm) in diameter. They are dark bluish-green with a waxy bloom and with 5 to 6 longitudinal ribs. The ribs are somewhat obtuse, with very small tubercles. Flowers are unisexual, male and female cyathia on separate plants. The peduncles are reddish, up to 0.8 inch (2 cm) long and supported by 3 small bracts.
Photo via gardenbanter.co.uk
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 they cannot tolerant 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. If you are growing them in containers or your soil is poor, feed with a half-strength fertilizer monthly.
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
Native to South Africa (Little Karoo in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape).
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