Euphorbia bongolavensis – Succulent plant

Euphorbia bongolavensis is an attractive shrublet that grows up to 1 m tall. The main stem stops elongating by the formation of brachyblasts (short, densely crowded shoots bearing clusters of leaves) that produce an umbrella-like open crown. Though not really a succulent, a very slow growing xerophyte, Euphorbia bongolavensis is a real must grown by a succulent enthusiast. It has uniquely colored leaves with bases of red and the rest of the lanceolate shaped leaves a green to bluish-green (depending on how much sun or shade). The stem resembles a Commiphora or Bursera with its peeling bark. The flowers are reduced in size and aggregated into a cluster of yellow flowers.

Scientific classification:

Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia

Scientific Name: Euphorbia bongolavensis

How to grow and maintain Euphorbia bongolavensis:

Light:

It prefers full to partial sunlight. Provides good sunlight at least 3-5 hours of the day, and turn it regularly so that your plant doesn’t begin to grow lopsided.

Soil:

It grows well in well-draining, gritty soils. They are not particular about soil pH, but they cannot tolerate wet soil.

Water:

You can allow the soil to dry out between each watering. Before watering the plant check underneath the pot through the drainage holes to see if the roots are dry. If so then add some water. Do not water too often to prevent overwatering, that can potentially kill it off.

Temperature:

It prefers an optimal temperatures of 60 degrees Fahrenheit – 85 degrees Fahrenheit / 16 degrees Celsius to 29 degrees Celsius.

Fertilizer:

Fertilize every two weeks with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer during its growing season in the spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing your plant during the fall and winter months.

Propagation:

Euphorbia bongolavensis can be easily propagated by cuttings. Take cutting in spring, which needs to be dried out for a couple of weeks before potting. Also can be propagated from seed, but they can be difficult to germinate.

Pests and Diseases:

Euphorbia may be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, occasionally spider mites.