Origin
Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br., commonly known as the Spiny Euphorbia, is a species of succulent plant in the family Euphorbiaceae that is native to Madagascar and southern Africa.
Common Names
The Spiny Euphorbia is known by a variety of common names, including Candelabra Cactus, Organ Pipe Cactus, and Naboom.
Uses
Throughout Africa, the Spiny Euphorbia has a variety of uses. The latex from the plant is often used to treat skin irritations and fungal infections, while the sap is used to ward off insects. In parts of southern Africa, the sap is also used as a fish poison.
Despite its medicinal value, the Spiny Euphorbia is also quite toxic. The latex contains a compound called euphorbol, which can cause severe skin and eye irritation, and can be poisonous if ingested. As such, it should be handled with care.
General Appearance
The Spiny Euphorbia grows up to 5 meters tall and 30 cm in diameter, forming a candelabra-like shape with numerous branches. The stem and branches are covered in spines, giving the plant its common name. The Spiny Euphorbia produces small, yellow-green flowers in the summer, followed by fruit that contains seeds.
The Spiny Euphorbia is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions, making it a popular ornamental plant in gardens and xeriscapes around the world.
Light Requirements
The Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. plant thrives best in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight may scorch the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. It is best to place the plant near a window that receives partial sun or use a sheer curtain to diffuse the sunlight. If the plant is kept in low light conditions for extended periods, it may stretch and become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
The Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Temperatures below 55°F (12.8°C) can be fatal to the plant. During winter, the plant should be kept away from cold drafts, vents, and doors that let in cold air.
Soil Requirements
The Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. A good soil mix for this plant would consist of equal parts of sand, perlite, and peat moss. The soil should never be allowed to dry out completely, but at the same time, it should not be waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Cultivation methods of Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br.
Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. is a succulent plant species that grows well in warm, dry climates. It thrives in well-drained soil and needs lots of sunlight, preferably at least six hours a day. It can be propagated by stem cuttings and seeds.
When planting Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br., ensure you choose a location with good drainage, and the soil contains plenty of organic matter. The plant can grow up to approximately 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, so ensure they have adequate space to grow.
Watering needs for Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br.
The watering needs of Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. are minimal, and a moderate amount of water is sufficient for their growth. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, leading to the death of the plant. Ensure the soil is completely dry before watering, and water the plant during the morning hours to avoid moisture buildup at night.
Fertilization of Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br.
Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. does not require frequent fertilization, and they do well with limited amounts of fertilizer. A slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer applied once or twice annually during the growing season can promote growth and flowering.
The plant can also thrive without any fertilizer. Ensure, however, the soil contains essential nutrients and organic matter for healthy plant growth.
Pruning Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br.
Pruning Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. is not necessary and can harm the plant. They have a low growth habit, so they do not require pruning to maintain their shape.
However, if the plant must be pruned for aesthetic reasons or to get rid of damaged leaves, ensure to use clean, sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant. Prune Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. during the growing season when they are actively growing.
Propagation of Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br.
Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. commonly known as Candelabrum tree is a slow-growing succulent plant that can be propagated by several methods such as seeds, division, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method to grow Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. Collect the fresh seeds from the ripe fruit and sow them in the spring season in well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the container in a bright location. Germination may take up to 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. can be propagated by division if it has several stems. Carefully remove the plant from the soil and separate the stems without damaging the roots. Plant them separately in well-draining soil mix and water them lightly. Do not water them again until after a week to allow the cut ends to heal.
Propagation by Cuttings
Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. can also be propagated by cuttings, take the stem cutting of about 4-5 inches long and let it callus for a few days. Place the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and water it lightly. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the container in a bright location. Roots should start to appear within few weeks.
Propagation by Grafting
Propagation by grafting is a specialized method to propagate Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. Cut off the top portion of the plant and graft it onto another healthy plant. Allow the graft union to heal and grow the plant as usual.
Disease Management for Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br.
Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br., commonly known as candelabra spurge, is a hardy plant that is less susceptible to diseases. However, some diseases may still affect the plant and cause damage. Here are some common diseases that may afflict the plant and ways to manage them:
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that attacks the roots of the plant, causing them to become brown and mushy. The disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To manage root rot, you should avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil is well-draining. You may also try to improve the air circulation around the plant by pruning any nearby vegetation.
Crown Gall
Crown gall is a bacterial disease that causes tumor-like growths on the stem and roots of the plant. The disease is caused by the bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens. To manage crown gall, you should remove and destroy any infected plant parts. You may also try to prevent the disease by using disease-free planting material and avoiding soil compaction around the plant.
Pest Management for Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br.
Euphorbia spinea N.E.Br. is also susceptible to pest attacks. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant and cause the leaves to yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, you can wash the plant leaves with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap. You may also try to improve the humidity around the plant to discourage the pests.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that secrete a white powdery substance on the plant leaves. They can cause the plant to wilt and die if the infestation is severe. To manage mealybugs, you can wipe the plant leaves with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or use insecticidal soap. You may also try to improve the air circulation around the plant to discourage the pests.
