Explore Euphorbia francoisii: A Kaleidoscope of Leaf Colour and Form
Euphorbia francoisii hybrids are captivating succulents known for their intricate foliage, not flowers. Discover their many leaf forms, colours, and Thai-originated names!
Euphorbia francoisii, native to Madagascar, has captured the hearts of collectors worldwide—not for its blooms, but for its striking, painterly leaves. Through hybridisation, especially in Thailand, growers have created a dazzling array of forms, each with a unique combination of colour, pattern, and shape.
Where It All Began: A Brief History
The species was first described in 1912 and has since gained popularity due to its ornamental foliage. Hybridisation efforts exploded in the late 20th century, led by Thai growers who began selecting plants for dramatic leaf traits—giving rise to a new generation of designer succulents.
What Makes Them Special?
Each hybrid is a living work of art. Desirable traits include:
- Vivid leaf colours – red, purple, orange, pink, and metallic greens
- Unique patterns – veining, striping, blotches, or variegation
- Diverse shapes – lanceolate, rounded, ruffled, or crested
- Caudex form – swollen bonsai-style bases prized by collectors
💠 Popular Hybrid Forms
Many Thai hybrids are sold under collector names that hint at their form, colour, or origin. These include:
- Krabi: Long red-veined leaves with rippling texture
- Koh Tao: Thick, rounded leaves with cream-pink mottling
- Red Devil: Intense dark red to maroon foliage with veined edges
- Rubra: Deep, consistent red colour throughout
- Superba: Large, showy leaves with multi-tone hues
- Cristata: Crested form with fascinating wave-like growth
- Variegata: Leaf variegation in white, cream, or pink
- Rainbow: Non-official term used for hybrids with multicolour leaves
🔍 Other Collector Terms
These terms are widely used in online Thai auctions and groups:
- “Ruffle” or “Wavy” – curled or undulated leaf edges
- “Tiger” or “Zebra” – striped forms
- “Vein type” – red, ghost, or white-veined forms
- “Pink Heart” – hybrids with pink-toned heart-shaped leaves
- “Metallic” – iridescent sheen under light
🪴 Cultivation Tips
These stunning hybrids need the right conditions to thrive:
- Use well-draining, gritty soil to prevent rot
- Provide bright filtered light—some direct sun enhances colour
- Water sparingly and allow the soil to fully dry between watering
- Fertilise during the growing season with a balanced succulent formula
- Reduce watering significantly in winter dormancy
🌱 Breeding & Market Trends
Growers use cross-pollination and careful selection to refine traits over generations. Market interest is growing fast, with many plants sold online via Thai platforms and auctions. Stability in colour, compact form, and unique leaf traits drive demand and value.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Euphorbia francoisii hybrids are unlike any other succulent group. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of fancy-leaf Euphorbias, these plants offer endless fascination. Just one plant can look completely different from another—even from the same seed pod!
Explore our collection and start curating your own gallery of Euphorbia leaf art. Explore some here.
