Euphorbia tubiglans | World of Succulents

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 tufted, spineless, dwarf succulent distinguished by its thick, fleshy rootstock or caudex. The short main stem is constricted into a very narrow neck which joins the branches at the apex of the underground rootstock. The main stem produces a cluster of 2-5 aerial upright, columnar branches, up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) tall and up to 0.8 inch (2 cm) in diameter, but often longer in cultivation, dark blueish green in color, with a waxy bloom, each on a stalk-like neck up to 0.4 inch (1 cm) long, 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 is up to 0.8 inch (2 cm) long, reddish, 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.