Origin
Euphorbia stellispina Haw. var. astrispina (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane, commonly known as the candelabra tree, is a succulent plant species native to the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It can be found growing in various habitats such as rocky slopes, open grasslands, and bushveld savannahs.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as the candelabra tree due to its unique appearance, with numerous branches that radiate outwards from a central stem giving it a candelabra-like shape. Other common names include the star thorn, starry-spine candelabra, and African milk tree.
Uses
Traditionally, various parts of the Euphorbia stellispina plant have medicinal properties and are used as a remedy for a range of ailments, including wounds, snake bites, and stomach disorders. The latex from the plant has also been used as a purgative and as a treatment for skin diseases. In some cultures, the milky latex is believed to cure eye infections. The plant is also used in landscaping as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance.
General Appearance
The Euphorbia stellispina plant has a large, thick, and woody stem that can grow up to 4 meters tall. The stem is covered by elephantine bark that is pale gray or brownish in color. The candelabra-like branches emerge from the stem, and each branch bears several narrow, pointed spines arranged in a star-like pattern. The plant's leaves are small, oval-shaped, and grow in clusters at the end of branches. The flowers are small and yellow, and the plant produces round, fleshy fruits that contain numerous seeds.
Growth Conditions of Euphorbia stellispina Haw. var. astrispina (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane
Euphorbia stellispina Haw. var. astrispina (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane is a succulent shrub that is adapted to live in harsh and dry environments. The plant is native to Madagascar and grows in rocky areas, hillsides, and dry forests. The ideal growth conditions for this plant are:
Light
Euphorbia stellispina requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and development. The plant can tolerate partial shade; however, it will not thrive in low light conditions. When grown indoors, it is recommended to place the plant near a south-facing window to ensure it receives enough sunlight.
Temperature
The plant is tolerant of hot and dry temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Euphorbia stellispina is between 15°C to 35°C (59°F to 95°F). This plant can survive in temperatures as high as 45°C (113°F) and as low as 5°C (41°F). However, extreme temperatures can cause stress to the plant and damage the leaves.
Soil
Euphorbia stellispina requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. The soil should be a mixture of sand, gravel, and loam with a pH between 6.6 and 7.5. The plant can grow in poor soils but may require fertilizer to support its growth. It is recommended to use a cactus or succulent mix when planting Euphorbia stellispina.
In summary, Euphorbia stellispina Haw. var. astrispina (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane requires full sunlight, hot and dry temperatures, and well-draining soil to achieve optimal growth and development. When grown under the right conditions, this plant can thrive and add an attractive feature to any garden or indoor space.
Cultivation Method
Euphorbia stellispina Haw. var. astrispina (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane is a succulent plant that requires well-draining soil. It is best grown in areas with a dry climate and ample sunlight. The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11. In areas with cold temperatures, the plant should be grown indoors.
Watering Needs
The plant requires infrequent but deep watering during the growing season. Overwatering may lead to root rot, and the plant should be allowed to dry before watering again. During the winter dormancy period, watering should be reduced significantly and only provided when the soil is extremely dry.
Fertilization
Euphorbia stellispina Haw. var. astrispina (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane, doesn't require frequent fertilization and should be fertilized only during the growing season. Fertilization should be carried out once every two months, using a balanced fertilizer with a low concentration of nitrogen. Over-fertilization with nitrogen may lead to leggy growth and weaken the plant.
Pruning
Pruning of Euphorbia stellispina Haw. var. astrispina (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane is not necessary. However, dead or damaged stems and leaves should be trimmed off to prevent the spreading of pests and diseases. While handling the plant, it is essential to wear gloves as its sap may cause skin and eye irritation.
Propagation methods
Euphorbia stellispina Haw. var. astrispina (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane can be propagated through several methods including seed propagation, division of rootball or stem cuttings.
Seed propagation
Seeds can be collected from the mature plant's flowers once they are dry and brown. Gently gather the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place before planting them in soil. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist. Within a few weeks, seeds will germinate and produce seedlings.
Division of rootball
Euphorbia stellispina Haw. var. astrispina (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane can also be propagated through the division of rootball. Gently dig up the mature plant and divide it into sections. Replant each section to its new pot and keep it moist until establishment.
Stem cuttings propagation
Stem cuttings can be also used for propagating Euphorbia stellispina Haw. var. astrispina (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane. Simply take a cutting that is around 10 cm in length from the parent plant, ensure it has no leaves to prevent water loss, and plant in well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and in a few weeks, roots will begin to form before new shoots appear.
Disease Management
Euphorbia stellispina Haw. var. astrispina (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane is generally a hardy plant, resistant to most diseases. However, improper watering and poor drainage can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not overwatered. In case of root rot, the affected plant parts should be removed, and the plant should be repotted in a new, well-draining soil mix.
Another common issue that the plant faces is leaf spot, caused by fungal or bacterial infections. Symptoms include the appearance of dark, circular spots on the leaves, and may result in the leaves falling off the plant prematurely. To manage leaf spot, it is essential to remove infected plant parts and maintain good hygiene by avoiding overcrowding of plants and providing adequate air circulation.
Pest Management
Insects are not a common problem for Euphorbia stellispina Haw. var. astrispina (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer & B.Sloane. However, if the plant is grown in a greenhouse or indoors, it may be susceptible to attacks from spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant, leading to yellowing and browning of the leaves. Mealybugs and scale insects are small, white or brown pests that attach themselves to the plant and suck out the sap, causing damage to the leaves and stems.
To manage these pests, it is important to identify them early and take appropriate action. One can try to control the infestation by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. For severe infestations, it may be necessary to remove the affected plant parts or use chemical pesticides, following the instructions carefully.
