Origin
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana is native to East Africa, specifically Ethiopia, Somalia, and Kenya.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as 'Gorei' in Ethiopia, 'Guri' in Somalia, and 'Kanga' in Kenya.
Uses
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana has a wide range of uses in traditional medicine. Its latex has been used to treat fever, wounds, and skin ailments. It is also used as a painkiller and anti-inflammatory agent. Moreover, the plant is used as a hedge and fence plant due to its thorny branches which effectively create a physical barrier.
General Appearance
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana is a succulent plant that can grow up to one meter in height. It has green stems covered in thick, sharp thorns. The leaves are thin and linear, measuring up to 5 cm long. The flowerheads are yellow-green and clustered at the tips of the stems. The fruit is a three-lobed capsule, which when ripe, releases small seeds that can be dispersed by the wind.
Growth Conditions of Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana is a succulent, perennial plant with a woody base. This plant is known for its characteristic yellow-green leaves arranged spirally around its stems. Below are the typical growth conditions for Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana.
Light
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana prefers bright sunlight for optimal growth. The plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in well-lit areas, such as windows or outdoor spaces with plenty of exposure to the sun. However, the plant should not be exposed to direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day as it may cause sunscalds.
Temperature
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana thrives best in arid and semi-arid conditions with moderate temperatures. The plant can tolerate high temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F) during the day, but it requires cooler temperatures of around 10-15°C (50-59°F) at night for growth and development. The plant is susceptible to frost damages during the winter season.
Soil
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soils. The plant requires a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH level ranging from 6.0-7.5. It is recommended to add perlite or sand to the planting mix to improve drainage and aeration. Moreover, the plant prefers soil that is rich in organic matter as it helps to retain moisture and nutrients.
Overall, providing adequate light, temperature, and soil requirements for Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana ensures its optimal growth and development. Maintaining these conditions can help prevent common problems such as leaf drop, root rot, and fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods:
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana can be propagated using seeds, stem cuttings, or division of the root system. This plant grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate high temperatures. It can be grown in pots as well as in the ground. It is important to keep the plant away from extreme wind and frosty conditions as it is not frost-tolerant.
Watering Needs:
The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season, especially during hot and dry conditions. Water should be reduced in the winter to avoid root rot. It is important to make sure the plant is not overwatered as this can lead to the development of fungal diseases.
Water should be directed to the root system and not on the leaves to avoid the development of leaf spot diseases. It is recommended to use water at room temperature and avoid using hard water to avoid mineral build-up in the soil.
Fertilization:
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana requires regular fertilization for optimal growth. It is best to use a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions and applied near the root system.
It is important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to the development of soft growth, which is susceptible to disease and pest infestation.
Pruning:
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana can be pruned occasionally to maintain its shape and size. It is recommended to prune the plant in the spring before the growing season begins. Pruning should be done with proper pruning tools to avoid tearing the stems and causing damage to the plant.
Dead or diseased branches should be removed immediately to avoid the spread of disease to other parts of the plant. It is important to wear protective clothing when handling the plant as it produces a milky white sap that can be a skin irritant.
Propagation of Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana is a plant that can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, and division of the rhizomes. Each method has its specific requirements and steps that need to be followed for successful propagation.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common and easiest way to propagate Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana. The best time to collect the seeds is in late summer when the fruits turn yellowish. The seeds must be sown in a well-draining soil mixture, at a depth of 1-2mm. It is important to keep the seeds moist and warm, at a temperature of around 25°C. Germination may take a few weeks to a few months, depending on the conditions. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots or planted directly in the ground.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a little bit more complicated than propagation by seeds, but it is still an easy way to propagate Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana. The best time to take the cuttings is in the spring or early summer. Cuttings should be taken from the new growth and must be at least 10cm long. The cuttings must be left to dry for a few days before planting in a well-draining soil mixture, preferably a mixture of sand and peat. The cuttings must be kept warm and moist, and once roots have developed, they can be transplanted to individual pots or planted directly in the ground.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is suitable for mature plants that have developed a strong rhizome system. The best time to divide the plants is in the spring or autumn. The rhizomes must be dug up carefully and separated, making sure that each division has at least one growth point and a few roots. The divisions should be planted immediately in a well-draining soil mixture, and kept moist and warm until they have developed a strong root system.
Disease Management
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana is susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. The following are some common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Crown and root rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi, and it can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage this disease, you should avoid overwatering the plant and make sure that it is growing in well-draining soil.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and stem lesions. To manage this disease, you should remove infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and improve air circulation around the plant.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves. To manage this disease, you should remove infected plant parts and increase airflow around the plant.
- Bacterial blight: This disease can cause black, water-soaked lesions on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, you should remove infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Euphorbia schimperiana Scheele var. schimperiana might be attacked by pests, which can damage the plant and reduce its growth and productivity. The following are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These insects can suck sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and wilt. To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with a strong stream of water, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs.
- Whiteflies: These insects are small and white and can cause leaf yellowing and stunted growth. To manage whiteflies, you can use the same methods as for aphids.
- Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause leaves to yellow and dry out. To manage spider mites, you can increase humidity around the plant by misting or using a humidifier, remove affected plant parts, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: These insects look like small cottony masses and can cause distorted growth. To manage mealybugs, you can use the same methods as for aphids, or use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them manually.
