Euphorbia

Origin

The genus *Euphorbia*, also known as spurge, belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. The approximately 2000 species are mainly found in subtropical regions of Africa, India, Madagascar, the Canary Islands, and America. It gets its name from the plant's "biting" white milky sap. Euphorbs closely resemble cacti because they have evolved convergently. This means that they have adapted to similar environmental conditions on different continents.

Appearance

The very large genus offers a great variety when it comes to the appearance of the plants. There are stemless, caudex-forming, and shrub-like species. Some euphorbias are often confused with cacti, as they also have the typical thorns of cacti. Some species form leaves, but these are often not persistent. The flowers are often very reduced in order to survive in the drought.

Care

Location: Euphorbias like it warm and sunny. A bright, partly sunny location is recommended. A place by a south-facing window is well-suited.
Substrate: A mixture of cactus and succulent soil and mineral components is suitable as a substrate. The substrate should always be loose and permeable so that excess water can drain away well.
Watering: Euphorbias don't need much water and they don't like waterlogging at all. So it's better to water too little than too much. The substrate should dry out completely between waterings.
Fertilizer: Fertilizing can be done approximately every three to four weeks, but only during the growing season. During the dormant period, succulents no longer need fertilizer. A cactus and succulent fertilizer is best suited.
Summer/Winter: In summer, the succulent can be placed outdoors after gradually acclimating it to direct sunlight; however, it should not be placed in direct midday sun. At temperatures below 10°C, it's best to bring the plant back indoors. In winter, the plant should be given a bright spot with a temperature of approximately 10°C. No fertilizing is necessary during this time. Since some species bloom in winter, they should still be watered occasionally.

Popular species

Euphorbia obesa: This plant forms a spherical shoot, which becomes cylindrical after a few years. It forms small thorns and can reach a height of about 30 cm.
Euphorbia susannae: This succulent consists of spherical, green bodies. The flower differs depending on whether it is a female or male specimen of the plant. It can reach a height of 20 cm.

Note: The poisonous sap causes a rash in people, especially those with sensitive skin.