Euphorbia lactea [grafted]

mottled spurge
Coral cactus makes a picturesque houseplant. Bright light, low-water conditions.
height 5–15ft
width 2–6ft
tolerates Drought, Pots
water
needs		 Low
water
info		 This euphorbia is very drought tolerant but will grow faster if they receive some summer water when almost dry, usually every couple weeks to a month once established (let the plant dry out between waterings). If you aren’t getting summer growth you may be underwatering. They are quite intolerant of overwatering during winter, when they should be allowed to go bone dry.
hardy
to		 40F
indoor
outdoor		 In or Out
drainage In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix
fertilizing All Purpose
origin Hybrid
california
native		 No
sunset
zones		 23, 24

Sunset Zones Map

SUNSET ZONES MAP

Growing Notes

If you allow this plant to go bone dry and then try to water it, the water will run down the sides of the pot and out the bottom. You’ll think you’ve watered the plant, but you haven’t! The soil is still dry! When euphorbia soil goes bone dry, it becomes hydrophobic, which means the soil is so dry that it resists absorbing moisture, like a dry sponge. Be sure your plant reaches saturation by over-watering until there is standing water in the saucer. Add more water each time it is soaked up. Eventually the water will stop being absorbed and remain in the dish. Your plant is now saturated and the water should be removed.
Sometimes when placed too close to a direct sun window, you’ll get burning along the flat side of the plant. It’s better to arrange the plant at a glancing angle from the light, or keep it a couple feet back from the window. This burning won’t hurt the plant long term, so it is only an aesthetic issue.

Special Interest

In the movie ‘The Gods Must be Crazy’ villain hides under a columnar euphorbia, only to be outwitted when his pursuer shoots the plant, pouring down toxic sap all over him. Clearly the screenwriter knew their plants!