Euphorbia dendroides – Succulent plants

Euphorbia dendroides is a small deciduous tree or large shrub with reddish-brown branches bearing whorled, narrowly lance-shaped, dark blue-green leaves. The autumn foliage can be very fiery and adds merit. The flowers are bright yellow to yellow-green and the plants bloom from March to April. The flowers are arranged in typical cymes, and the shrubs can grow to a height of approximately two meters. It can be grown as a specimen pot plant for the patio or conservatory and will perform well as a shrub in maritime gardens in our milder counties. All parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested. The milky sap may cause irritation to skin and eyes.

Scientific classification

Family

Euphorbiaceae

Genus

Euphorbia

Scientific Name

Euphorbia dendroides

Common Name

Tree spurge, Woody spurge

How to grow and maintain Euphorbia dendroides

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

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 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.

How to Propagate Euphorbia dendroides

It can be easily propagated by cuttings. Take stem cutting in spring. Also can be propagated from seed, but it can be difficult to germinate.

Pests and Diseases

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