About
In spring and summer, greenish-yellow flowers emerge from the ribs near the top of the plant on stems which dry and remain persistent after flowering is over. A tender, clump-forming, slow-growing succulent producing roughly spherical, leafless and spineless stems to 12.5cm (5in) in diameter with 8-12 vertical, angled ribs, variably marked with narrow, horizontal bands of green and purple-bronze. Older plants can produce offsets from around their base.
About the genus
Euphorbia can be annuals, perennials, shrubs or succulents, with milky sap and small flowers held within cupped, often colourful bracts
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
ToxicityHumans/Pets: IRRITANT to skin/eye, harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in well-drained soil, in full sun. to partial shade. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further details
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, or from offsets
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free