Euphorbia canariensis f. cristata – Succulent plant

Euphorbia canariensis f. cristata is an ornamental, unique, small succulent shrub that grows 1-4 m tall. The clusters profusely from the base. Its trunk can produce more than 150 branches as thick as a man’s arm. It has several cultivated ridge forms, for its beautiful stem with short pairs of spines and pronounced sculpting effects. These plants produce monstrous ridges and the ridges occasionally produce normal shoots. The milky sap of this plant is poisonous and can cause skin irritations and even temporary blindness, and death may result if any of its parts are eaten. Therefore Euphorbia should be handled with caution and keep it away from children and pets.

Scientific classification

Family:

Euphorbiaceae

Genus:

Euphorbia

Scientific Name:

Euphorbia canariensis f. cristata

How to grow and care Euphorbia canariensis f. cristata

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, or cactus potting mix. They are not particular about soil pH, but they cannot tolerate wet soil.

Water

Water regularly during the growing season. You can allow the soil to dry out between each watering. No water should ever be allowed to stand around the roots. Keep almost completely dry in winter. Do not water too often to prevent overwatering, which can potentially kill it off.

Temperature

It prefers an optimal temperature 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 canariensis can be easily propagated by seed and cuttings. Take cutting in spring, which needs to be dried out for a couple of weeks in shade before potting. This can be tricky, because of the exuding sap. Rooting hormone is recommended with Euphorbias.

Pests and Diseases

Euphorbia may be susceptible to mealy bugs, scale insects, occasionally spider