Origin
Euphorbia crotonoides Boiss. subsp. narokensis S.Carter, also known as the Narok euphorbia, is a succulent plant that is native to Africa. It is commonly found in Kenya, specifically in the Great Rift Valley Province, where it grows in rocky areas at elevations ranging from 1,320 to 2,020 meters above sea level.
Common Names
The Narok euphorbia is commonly known by various local names in Kenya, including Olchekut, Olemukir, and Olesere. It is also sometimes referred to as the Croton-leaved spurge due to its resemblance to the Croton plant.
Uses
The sap of the Narok euphorbia is traditionally used by the Maasai people in Kenya as a traditional medicine. The sap is said to have blood cleansing and pain-relieving properties and is used to treat skin conditions, sore throats, and other ailments. The plant is also used for fencing and as a barrier against crop-raiding animals.
General Appearance
The Narok euphorbia is a succulent plant that grows in a shrub-like form, reaching heights of up to 1.5 meters. It has thick, elongated stems that are green and covered in small, white, wart-like bumps. The stems are also marked with occasional small red spots. The leaves of the plant are small, narrow, and green, growing in tight clusters at the tips of the stems. The flowers of the Narok euphorbia are small and inconspicuous, growing in clusters near the tips of the stems. The plant produces a milky, white sap when cut or damaged, which is toxic and can cause skin irritation or blindness if it comes into contact with the eyes.
Light Requirements
Euphorbia crotonoides Boiss. subsp. narokensis S.Carter requires full to partial sunlight exposure throughout the day, making sure it is not exposed to extreme heat or light. It can thrive well in areas with bright but indirect sunlight, such as in shaded patios or balconies.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well when the temperature is between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. It is essential to maintain a stable temperature range to provide the best growing conditions for the plant. The plant is sensitive to very low temperatures, so it is vital to protect it from cold weather.
Soil Requirements
Euphorbia crotonoides Boiss. subsp. narokensis S.Carter thrives in well-draining, mildly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 to 7.0. The soil should be nutrient-rich, with a blend of humus and sand. The plant requires moist, well-drained soil, but overwatering can cause root rot. The addition of organic matter can improve the soil's fertility, allowing the plant to grow optimally.
Cultivation methods
Euphorbia crotonoides Boiss. subsp. narokensis S.Carter is a relatively easy plant to grow and maintain. It is a succulent that requires well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. If grown outdoors, the plant prefers a warm climate and should be protected from frost. If grown indoors, place it near a sunny window or under artificial light.
To propagate this plant, use stem cuttings or offsets. Cuttings or offsets should be laid flat on the soil surface, and the soil should be kept moist until new growth appears. Transplant the new plants into their individual pots when they have developed enough roots.
Watering needs
Euphorbia crotonoides Boiss. subsp. narokensis S.Carter is a relatively drought-tolerant plant, but it still needs some water. Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out a bit between watering. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal for the plant.
When watering, avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause damage or even kill the plant. Water at the base of the plant, allowing the water to be absorbed by the soil.
Fertilization
The plant doesn't require much fertilizer, but fertilization can help promote growth. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Dilute the fertilizer to half of the recommended strength to avoid burning the plant's roots.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Euphorbia crotonoides Boiss. subsp. narokensis S.Carter but can be done to control the plant's size or shape. Wear gloves when handling the plant, as it produces a latex that can be irritating to the skin. Use pruning shears to cut back the plant's stems, and make the cuts at an angle to promote healing. Cut back dead or damaged stems as soon as you notice them.
Propagation for Euphorbia crotonoides Boiss. subsp. narokensis S.Carter
Euphorbia crotonoides Boiss. subsp. narokensis S.Carter can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual propagation
Propagating the plant through seeds is an effective method, but it may take some time for the seeds to germinate. The seeds need to be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they germinate. It is advisable to sow the seeds in a warm environment, with a temperature of around 20 to 25°C. Once the seedlings have emerged, they can be transplanted into a pot with suitable soil and given proper care.
Asexual propagation
Asexual propagation is a quicker method that involves using stem or leaf cuttings to produce a new plant. The cuttings can be taken during the growing season when the plant is actively growing. The cutting should be approximately 10cm long and should be taken from a healthy part of the plant, with no signs of disease or pests. The cutting should be allowed to dry for a few days before it is planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be watered regularly until it develops roots and starts growing.
Another method of asexual propagation is through division. The plant can be divided during the growing season by separating the clumps of roots and shoots. The divided sections should be potted in a suitable soil mix and given appropriate care.
Disease Management
Like most plants, Euphorbia crotonoides Boiss. subsp. narokensis S.Carter is prone to a few diseases that can affect its overall health and growth. The most common diseases that can affect this plant are fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, leaf spots, and root rot.
To manage powdery mildew, it is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overhead watering. If the disease has already affected the plant, prune the infected parts and consider applying a fungicide. For leaf spots, remove the infected leaves, improve air circulation, and avoid watering the plant from above. For root rot, adjust your watering schedule to prevent waterlogging, and consider applying a fungicide to the soil.
Pest Management
Euphorbia crotonoides Boiss. subsp. narokensis S.Carter is also prone to a few common pests, such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant, while mealybugs and scale insects feed on the plant sap and can cause wilting and stunted growth.
To manage spider mites, rinse the leaves with water and apply insecticidal soap. For mealybugs and scale insects, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the pests and their eggs. Alternatively, apply neem oil or a systemic insecticide to the plant to control the pests. Regularly inspecting the plant for pests and keeping it clean can also help prevent pest infestations.
