Care of the succulent plant Euphorbia enterophora or Milk-bush spurge |
The genus Euphorbia, family Euphorbiaceae, includes 2,000 species of succulents, trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants of cosmopolitan distribution. Some species are: Euphorbia enterophora, Euphorbia meloformis, Euphorbia lomelii, Euphorbia enopla, Euphorbia echinus, Euphorbia cotinifolia, Euphorbia coerulescens, Euphorbia characias, Euphorbia candelabrum, Euphorbia canariensis, Euphorbia pulcherrima, Euphorbia resinifera, Euphorbia milii, Euphorbia tithymaloides, Euphorbia regis-jubae, Euphorbia royleana, Euphorbia trigona, Euphorbia bivonae, Euphorbia rigida, Euphorbia handiensis, Euphorbia balsamifera, Euphorbia leucocephala. Common name: Milk-bush spurge. This species is native to Madagascar. They are succulent plants of shrub or arboreal bearing that reach 4 meters (13.12 feet) in height. They have few and rudimentary leaves and flattened segments with rounded apex of reddish tones. The small, yellowish flowers appear on the top of the plant and are not very decorative. Milk-bush spurge is used as isolated specimens, in rockery, on dry slopes, in cactus and succulent gardens, and in pots for patios and terraces. Euphorbia enterophora can grow in direct sun, semi-shade or shade exposures. It's a tropical plant that does not resist temperatures below 3 ºC (37.4 ºF). The soil can be a mixture of volcanic gravel with peat or a commercial cactus substrate with 30% coarse siliceous sand. The transplant is done in late winter or early spring. Water regularly from spring to early fall, waiting for the substrate to dry. Winter water once a month at most. Milk-bush spurge does not need fertilizers. Euphorbia enterophora accepts light pruning in early spring to keep them compact. Milk-bush spurge is quite resistant to pests and diseases but sensitive to excessive watering and mealybugs. Euphorbia enterophora propagates easily by cuttings in late spring or early summer; dry them for a week before rooting; protect yourself from the irritating latex these plants produce. |
Image of the succulent plant Euphorbia enterophora or Milk-bush spurge |