Origin
Euphorbia basutica Marloth is a South African succulent plant that belongs to the Euphorbia family. It is commonly found in Lesotho, Free State, and the Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa. This plant thrives best in rocky areas, grasslands, and bushvelds.
Common names
Euphorbia basutica Marloth has several common names, including Basutoland candelabra, mountain euphorbia, and spiny euphorbia.
Uses
The sap of this plant is toxic and causes skin irritation, so it is not used for medicinal purposes. However, the plant is sometimes used for ornamental purposes in landscaping because of its unique candelabra-like shape, attractive red flowers, and green stems that turn red in sunlight.
General appearance
Euphorbia basutica Marloth is a succulent plant that grows up to 2 meters in height. It has thick, succulent stems with spiny edges, which grow in a candelabra-like shape, branching outwards. The leaves are small and fall off quickly, leaving behind a series of spines. The flowers grow in clusters at the tips of the branches, and are bright red, making an excellent contrast to the green stems. The plant blooms in the summer, between November and February.
Light Requirements
Euphorbia basutica Marloth is a sun-loving plant that requires a bright spot to thrive. It does best when exposed to direct sunlight for at least six hours daily. If you are growing it indoors, choose a spot near a south-facing window where it can receive sufficient sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant has a moderate temperature range, preferring warm conditions between 20°C to 30°C for optimal growth. It can withstand occasional frosts and freezing temperatures, but it is best to protect it from extreme cold.
Soil Requirements
Euphorbia basutica Marloth grows best in well-draining, sandy soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil pH, ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. When planting, ensure that the soil is loose and not compacted, as this can impede drainage and harm the roots.
Cultivation Methods
Euphorbia basutica Marloth is a succulent plant that thrives in well-draining soil and warm temperatures. When cultivating this plant, it is important to create a suitable environment, such as a greenhouse, that provides adequate light, humidity, and temperature. It is also vital to be mindful of the size of the pot used, ensuring that it is not too small to limit its growth or too large to create a drowning hazard.
Watering Needs
Like most succulent plants, Euphorbia basutica Marloth is drought-tolerant and should not be over-watered. It is recommended to water the plant sparingly and only when the soil is dry. During the winter months, the plant can go for longer periods without watering.
Fertilization
Although Euphorbia basutica Marloth can survive without fertilization, a small amount of fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to maintain optimal health and growth. A diluted solution of balanced fertilizer should be applied every two weeks. It is, however, essential to ensure that the soil is moist before applying the fertilizer to avoid burning the roots.
Pruning
Euphorbia basutica Marloth requires minimal pruning, and it is recommended to perform this during the active growth period. Pruning should be done to remove diseased or dead branches and leaves. Avoid using sharp pruning tools that can cause damage to the plant. It is also important to wear gloves and protective clothing since the plant's milky sap can cause skin irritation.
Propagation of Euphorbia basutica Marloth
Euphorbia basutica Marloth is a succulent plant that can be propagated using various methods. Here are some of the propagation methods:
Propagation by cuttings
Cuttings are the most common propagation method for Euphorbia basutica Marloth. Take cuttings from a healthy plant during the growing season, making sure they are at least 10 cm long. Let the cuttings dry out for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until roots have formed, then gradually increase watering.
Propagation by seeds
Euphorbia basutica Marloth can also be propagated by seeds. Sow the seeds in a seed tray filled with well-draining soil and keep them in a warm, bright place. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The seeds should germinate within a few weeks. Once the seedlings are big enough, transplant them into individual pots.
Propagation by division
Propagation by division is another method that can be used for Euphorbia basutica Marloth. This is done by carefully digging up the plant and separating it into smaller sections. Each section should have its own roots and stems. Plant the sections in well-draining soil and water sparingly until they are established.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not overwatered. Euphorbia basutica Marloth does not like to be in damp soil, and too much water can cause root rot.
Disease and Pest Management for Euphorbia basutica Marloth
Euphorbia basutica Marloth is generally a low-maintenance plant and is not prone to many diseases and pests. However, it can be affected by a few problems, which can be managed using several measures without using any harmful chemical pesticides.
Common Diseases
Root Rot: It is the most common disease that affects Euphorbia basutica Marloth. It is caused by overwatering, poor soil drainage, or a fungal infection. To prevent this, avoid overwatering the plant, use well-draining soil, and ensure the pot has enough drainage holes. If the plant is affected, remove the infected soil, apply a fungicide and repot into well-draining soil.
Leaf Spot: It is caused by fungal and bacterial infections and causes brown or yellow spots on the leaves. To prevent leaf spot, avoid excess watering, and do not spray water on the leaves. If the plant is affected, remove the infected leaves and apply a fungicide or bactericide.
Common Pests
Aphids: They are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth, curled leaves, and sometimes sticky honeydew on the leaves. To control aphids, spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap or use neem oil.
Spider Mites: They are microscopic pests that suck sap from the plant, causing yellow leaves and deformed growth. To prevent spider mites, mist the plant regularly and remove any affected leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
Mealybugs: They are pests that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause damage. They appear as small white fluffy masses on the leaves or branches. To control mealybugs, remove the infected parts and spray the plant with a mixture of alcohol and water or insecticidal soap.
In conclusion, by practicing good plant care, by inspecting the plant regularly, and taking the appropriate measures when required, you can keep Euphorbia basutica Marloth healthy and free from pests and diseases.
