Scientific Name
Euphorbia 'Zig Zag'
Synonym(s)
Euphorbia pseudocactus 'Zig Zag'
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Origin
Euphorbia 'Zig Zag' is a hybrid that results from a cross between Euphorbia pseudocactus and another hybrid of Euphorbia pseudocactus and Euphorbia grandicornis.
Description
Euphorbia 'Zig Zag', usually sold as Euphorbia pseudocactus 'Zig Zag', is an accurate mix of its parents, Euphorbia pseudocactus and Euphorbia grandicornis. Although it is smaller than Euphorbia grandicornis, it has a lot of angularity and similar spines. Additionally, it has the striping of Euphorbia pseudocactus. Euphorbia 'Zig Zag' takes up less space than Euphorbia grandicornis and is less prone to falling over onto itself than Euphorbia pseudocactus.
The flowers are small, bright yellow, and appear near the tips of the branches in spring.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °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. If you are growing them in containers or your soil is poor, feed them with a half-strength fertilizer monthly.
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 there are a few pests and diseases to be alert for.
Learn 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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