Scientific Name
Euphorbia umfoloziensis R.G.Peckover
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Description
Euphorbia umfoloziensis is a small succulent with a main stem and a root, forming a large underground tuberous body. The stem crowns the root, often branched laterally to form multiple heads. It is distinguished by its horizontally extended depressions from which old branches have fallen. The branches can grow up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) long and 1.6 inches (4 cm) thick, constricted at intervals, 3-, 4- or 5-angled, not twisted, and bluish-green with lighter green markings. They have prominent tubercles with a pair of spines and a rudimentary leaf at the apex. The spines are slender, reflexed, or slightly V-shaped, with or without basal prickles, and can measure up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) long.
The cymes are produced only on new growth, one from each flowering eye consisting of 1 cyathium.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °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 are growing 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. This can be tricky because of the exuding sap. Rooting hormone is recommended with Euphorbias. They tend to grow problem-free, but a few pests and diseases are to be alert for.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia.
Origin
Euphorbia umfoloziensis is native to South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland.
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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