Overview
Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton subsp. adenensis (Deflers) P.R.O.Bally is a succulent perennial plant that belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. It is a small shrub with a high medicinal value and is native to Yemen, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.
Common Names
Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton subsp. adenensis (Deflers) P.R.O.Bally is commonly known by several names such as balsam spurge, resin spurge, Arabian milk bush, and milk hedge.
Uses
The plant has been traditionally used by the people of Yemen and other neighboring countries to treat various ailments such as skin diseases, respiratory infections, and digestive disorders. The resin extracted from the plant is known for its antiseptic, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, making it useful for wound healing and treating infections.
In addition to its medicinal properties, the plant extract is used in the perfume industry to produce fragrances, and the latex obtained from the plant is used to manufacture rubber.
General Appearance
Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton subsp. adenensis (Deflers) P.R.O.Bally is a succulent shrub that can reach up to 2 meters in height. The stems are smooth, green, and succulent, with small elliptical leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem.
The flowers are small and yellow-green, and they grow in terminal clusters at the end of the stems. The fruit is a small, three-lobed capsule that contains seeds that are dispersed by wind or borne by animals.
The plant has a milky white latex that exudes from the stem and leaves when damaged, which is poisonous and can cause skin irritation and eye damage if it comes into contact with the skin or mucous membranes.
Light Requirements
Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton subsp. adenensis prefers full sunlight and can tolerate partial shade. It is important to ensure that the plant receives adequate sunlight as this is critical to its growth and development. Lack of sufficient sunlight can lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures and can withstand high temperatures of up to 40°C. The minimum temperature requirement for the plant is 10°C. In colder climates, it is best to grow the plants in a greenhouse or bring them indoors during the winter months to protect them from extreme cold.
Soil Requirements
Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton subsp. adenensis prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and it is important to avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot. It is recommended to provide a mix of sand, perlite and peat moss to the soil for better results.
Cultivation
Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton subsp. adenensis (Deflers) P.R.O.Bally, commonly referred to as the "balsam spurge," is a hardy plant that can be grown indoors or outdoors. When grown indoors, it requires ample sunlight. Outdoors, it can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.
Watering Needs
The balsam spurge has moderate watering needs and should be watered when the top layer of soil is dry. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it's crucial to not leave the plant in standing water for extended periods. During the winter months, when the plant is dormant, the watering frequency can be decreased.
Fertilization
Balsam spurge does not require frequent fertilization. A general-purpose fertilizer can be added to the soil once a month during the growing season. It's best to avoid fertilizing during the winter months, when the plant is not actively growing.
Pruning
Pruning the balsam spurge can promote a bushier shape and keep it from becoming lanky. The plant is known to naturally branch out, but pruning can help shape its overall form. It's best to prune in the spring before new growth starts. Wearing gloves, use disinfected pruning shears to cut back the stems just above a pair of leaves. This will encourage new growth and maintain the overall health of the plant.
Propagation of Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton subsp. adenensis (Deflers) P.R.O.Bally
Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton subsp. adenensis (Deflers) P.R.O.Bally can be propagated through seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation through seeds:
Seeds of Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton subsp. adenensis (Deflers) P.R.O.Bally can be sown in pots filled with a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of around 1 cm and kept moist. The seeds will germinate within 3-6 weeks, and once they have grown at least two true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots. The seedling plants should be grown in a partially shaded spot, away from direct sunlight.
Propagation through stem cuttings:
Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton subsp. adenensis (Deflers) P.R.O.Bally can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Choose a healthy, mature stem with several leaves and make a clean cut using a sharp knife. Allow the cut to dry and callus over for a few days. Prepare a well-draining soil mix and make a hole in it using a pencil or a stick. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder and plant it in the hole. Water the cutting thoroughly and keep it in a partially shaded area, away from direct sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist and wait for the cutting to root, which should take 3-4 weeks. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or planted outdoors.
Disease Management
Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton subsp. adenensis (Deflers) P.R.O.Bally is a hardy and disease-resistant plant, but it can still be affected by various diseases if it is not properly cared for. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant:
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases can cause rot, wilting, or yellowing of the leaves. The most common fungal diseases that can affect Euphorbia balsamifera include:
- Phytophthora root rot: A soil-borne disease that causes the roots to rot, leading to nutrient deficiency and plant death. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plant, improve soil drainage, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white or grayish powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To prevent this disease, water the plant early in the day, avoid overcrowding, and apply fungicide if necessary.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases can cause leaf spots, wilting, and dieback. The most common bacterial diseases that can affect Euphorbia balsamifera include:
- Bacterial soft rot: A bacterial disease that causes soft, watery, and foul-smelling lesions on the stems, leaves, and flowers. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts of the plant, increase air circulation, and apply a bactericide if necessary.
- Bacterial leaf spot: A bacterial disease that causes water-soaked spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, prevent water stress, increase air circulation, and apply a bactericide if necessary.
Pest Management
Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton subsp. adenensis (Deflers) P.R.O.Bally is also susceptible to various pests that can damage the plant. Here are some of the common pests that might affect the plant:
Insects
Insects can feed on the leaves, stems, and flowers, causing leaf drop, wilting, and stunted growth. The most common insects that can affect Euphorbia balsamifera include:
- Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to distort and curl. To manage this pest, remove the affected leaves, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
- Spider mites: Tiny insects that cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage this pest, increase humidity, rinse leaves with a strong water jet, apply horticultural oil or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as predatory mites or thrips.
Snails and Slugs
Snails and slugs can feed on the leaves and flowers, causing irregular holes and slime trails. To manage this pest, remove any hiding places such as rocks or debris, apply slug bait, or use physical barriers such as copper tape or eggshells around the plant.
