Euphorbia horrida - The African Milk Barrel

The African Milk Barrel: A Spiny and Striking Succulent

Euphorbia horrida is a captivating succulent that will add a touch of the exotic to your plant collection. This intriguing species is native to South Africa and is prized for its fierce spines and unique barrel-like form.

Distinctive Features

• Stems: Thick, cylindrical stems densely covered in sharp spines. The stems are typically a grey-green colour and have a textured appearance, often with prominent ribs and deep furrows.
• Leaves: Tiny, ephemeral leaves that appear briefly during the growing season. The leaves are typically a bright green colour and have a smooth texture.
• Flowers: Produces small, yellow flowers in spring and summer. The flowers are not the main attraction, but they add a touch of delicate beauty to this fascinating plant.
• Growth Habit: This Euphorbia has an upright, columnar growth habit. It typically reaches a height of 30-60cm (12-24 inches) and forms a dense, spiny column.

Care Tips

• Light: Bright, indirect light is best. While it enjoys some direct sunlight, intense afternoon sun can scorch the stems.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to be cautious.
• Soil: Use a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. You can also add perlite or pumice to improve drainage.
• Temperature: Maintain warm temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F). Avoid exposing this succulent to cold draughts or frost.
• Fertiliser: Use a diluted succulent fertiliser once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Propagation: This Euphorbia can be propagated through stem cuttings or seeds. Simply remove a healthy stem, allow it to callus over, and then place it on well-draining soil. Roots will typically form within a few weeks.

Additional Notes

• Euphorbia horrida is relatively easy to care for, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced growers.
• This succulent is a wonderful addition to any indoor garden, rock garden, or succulent arrangement.
• With its unique texture and intriguing appearance, this Euphorbia is sure to be a conversation starter.
  
• Caution: The sap of this Euphorbia can be irritating to the skin and eyes. It is best to wear gloves when handling this plant.