About
A tender, slow-growing, architectural succulent shrub producing very upright stems and branches to 1.8m (6ft) high. Small, insignificant, pale-green flowers can be produced in spring and summer at the tops of the stems, but these are unlikely to be produced on plants when grown in the home. Along each side of the stems are variable, V-shaped bands in pale green. These are reddish-green and three to four sided, with short-lived, oval, reddish-purple leaves and persistent reddish-brown spines produced along the ridges of the stems.
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
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height10-20 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
PruningPrune when required to reduce size in early spring
PropagationPropagate by cuttings in spring or early summer; dip cut surfaces in charcoal or lukewarm water to prevent bleeding
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free