Euphorbia piscidermis (Fish Skin Euphorbia)

Euphorbia piscidermis (Fish Skin Euphorbia) is a decorative, dwarf succulent plant covered with characteristic, creamy-white, spirally arranged fish-scales. It is very unique Euphorbia, usually unbranched, with stem up to 5 inches tall and up to 3 inches in diameter. The solitary cymes with small flowers are produced in a ring near the top of the stem.

Scientific Classification:

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

Scientific Name: Euphorbia piscidermis M.G.Gilbert
Common Names: Fish Skin Euphorbia

How to care and grow Euphorbia piscidermis (Fish Skin Euphorbia)?

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 soil 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 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 piscidermis can be easily propagated by 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. Also can be propagated from seed, but they can be difficult to germinate.

Pests and Diseases:

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