Origin
The Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane is commonly known as Hutton's Spurge. This plant is a member of the Euphorbiaceae family. It is native to South Africa, where it is found in the Cape Provinces and KwaZulu-Natal.
Common Names
Aside from Hutton's Spurge, Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane is also called Coastal Spurge or Smooth-leaved Spurge.
Uses
Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane is considered a potentially poisonous plant. However, it is also known for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating skin ailments. It is also used by indigenous people for fishing. The crushed plant is rubbed on fishing lines to make them sticky, and it is believed that this attracts and catches fish in greater numbers.
General Appearance
The Hutton's Spurge is a perennial succulent shrub that can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. It has a thick, fleshy stem that is sometimes woody at the base, and branches outwards. Its leaves are alternate and thick, with a smooth surface and no teeth nor hairs. The flowers are small and yellow, and they grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The plant exudes a milky sap when it is damaged, which is poisonous when ingested.
Light Requirements
Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane grows well in bright, indirect sunlight. It is not suited to direct sunlight exposure, which can cause leaf scorch due to its sensitivity to the intense UV radiation. Instead, it thrives in areas with partially shaded areas that provide filtered sunlight. Indoors, an east or west-facing window is ideal for growth.
Temperature Requirements
Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane prefers warm temperatures ranging from 18-25°C (65-80°F). It does not tolerate freezing temperatures or sudden temperature fluctuations. Ideal humidity levels fall between 40% and 60% RH (Relative Humidity).
Soil Requirements
Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers soil with a pH range of 6-7.5. A mixture of equal parts peat, vermiculite, and perlite is an excellent option. Sphagnum moss, coarse sand, and small rocks can also be added to improve water drainage. Additionally, the plant should be repotted every two years to replenish the soil nutrients.
Cultivation
The plant Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane can be grown both indoors and outdoors in areas with a warm and temperate climate. It can be grown as a ground cover, in rock gardens, in pots and containers, or as a border plant. This plant requires well-draining soil and full sun exposure
Watering needs
Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane plants require regular watering. However, overwatering should be avoided, as it can cause root rot and other diseases. Water the plant when the soil is dry, about once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth, apply a balanced fertilizer to Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane plants during the growing season. Fertilize the plant once every month using a water-soluble fertilizer. Over-fertilization must be avoided, as it can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane plants is necessary to maintain their shape and size. Prune the plant back to its main stem after it has finished flowering to encourage bushy growth. Wear gloves when handling this plant, as it produces a toxic sap that can cause skin irritation and other allergic reactions.
Propagation of Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae
Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane is a quite uncommon plant species that belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. In order to propagate this plant, there are different methods that you can utilize, including the following:
Propagation by Seed
The propagation by seed method is the easiest and most common way to propagate Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae. Harvest the seeds from the parent plant and make sure you dry them in a cool and shaded place. Sterilize the seed using ethanol or hydrogen peroxide before sowing. Plant the seeds in seedling trays filled with well-draining soil mix and keep them in a warm place. Ensure that the soil is moist at all times. The optimal germination temperature is between 65 and 75°F.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cutting is another effective way of propagating Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae. Select healthy stems for cutting and make sure they do not have any signs of pests or diseases. Cut the stem from the parent plant using clean and sharp gardening shears. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone to hasten the root formation process. Plant the stem cutting in well-draining soil or vermiculite and place it in a warm and bright location while ensuring that the soil stays evenly moist. The stem will slowly develop its root system and bud in a few weeks.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is ideal for mature Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. huttoniae plants that have developed a dense cluster. Separate the clusters into small sections, making sure that each section contains its own root system. Alternatively, attempt to take out the complete root ball and divide it into smaller sections. Place the divided sections in their individual pots, water them properly, and ensure they're in a warm location with bright sunlight.
Disease and Pest Management for Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. Huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane
Euphorbia inermis Mill. var. Huttoniae (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane, commonly known as Hutton’s spurge, is a hardy and low-maintenance plant that is relatively disease and pest-resistant. However, eventualities can happen, reducing health and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Phytophthora
The Phytophthora fungus may infect and cause root rot on all Euphorbia species, including E. inermis var. Huttoniae. The symptoms include falling leaves, wilting, and a soft stem particularly at the base. To prevent infection, it is essential to plant in well-draining soil, not overwater, and avoid waterlogging. Although phytophthora is incurable, affected plants can recover with the right growing conditions.
Mildew
Another common fungal disease on Euphorbias is powdery mildew. It causes white, powdery fungal growth on the leaf surfaces, and may eventually kill the plant. Avoid powdery mildew by planting in a sunny, and well-ventilated area with ample space for air movement. Prune affected areas and dispose of leaves and fallen plant debris far from the plant's base. There are fungicidal sprays that offer a remedy for mild or severe infestations of mildew.
Common Pests
Root aphids
These tiny insects stick to the roots and deprive them of nutrients, causing the plant to weaken and wilt. To manage root aphids, first, uproot the affected plant and dispose of the soil away from the garden. To get rid of any other aphids that may persist, use organic insecticidal soap and neem oil. Before replanting, sterilize all garden tools and the planting container to prevent spreading of the disease.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny little pests that puncture the plant’s cells and suck out the nutrients. They are mostly found on the undersides of the leaves and branching stems, causing the plant to lose vitality and color. Managing spider mites involve using a damp cloth to wipe off the plant's leaves regularly and isolating the affected plant from others. Ladybirds and predatory mites are natural predators of spider mites and may also offer a remedy when introduced.
When managing diseases and pests, it is essential to inspect the plant regularly and act fast once signs of infection appear. Taking preventative measures might be all that the plant requires to stay healthy and productive.
