Indian tree spurge
Euphorbia tirucalli
Overview
Indian tree spurge is an amazing species of plant. It is a member of the Euphorbia family and is native to India, Sub-Saharan Africa, Pakistan, and the Arabian Peninsula. It can reach heights of up to 20 feet and can form sprawling and dense clumps. The plant is unique for its cylindrical orange-red stems that exude a white milky sap if snapped or cut, that can cause skin irritation. It can thrive in a variety of environments ranging from dry deserts to wet tropical forests. Its unique features make it a great addition to landscaping as it creates an exotically interesting look. Due to its resistance to drought and disease it is also highly valuable in xeriscaping and other landscaping purposes.
Care Guide
Watering
Indian tree spurge, also known as stick euphorbia, should be watered moderately throughout the growing season. In the warmer months, the plant should receive about 1 inch of water per week. During the cooler months, this should be reduced to about ½ inch of water every 2 weeks. When watering Indian tree spurge, avoid overwatering as excessive moisture can cause root rot. When in doubt, opt for less water as it prefers dry soil conditions.
Light
Indian Tree Spurge (Euphorbia tirucalli) needs full sunlight for optimal growth. This plant should get between 6-8 hours of sunlight per day, although it can tolerate up to 12 hours of sunlight in a day. It is important to note that this species does not do well in hot, humid climates, and should be protected from the full afternoon sun to help decrease its chances of wilting or dying from the heat.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 11-12.
Pruning
Indian tree spurge (Euphorbia tirucalli) should be pruned twice per year, once in the spring and once in the fall. In the spring, prune the tree spurge by removing dead branches and twigs and cutting back any damaged or crossed branches. In the fall, prune the tree spurge again to encourage dense, bushy growth. When pruning, prune gently, taking off no more than 1/3 of the root mass at 1 time, and make sure to clean up and dispose of all trimmings. Pruning Indian tree spurge helps maintain its shape and size, and increases flowering and overall health of the plant.
Propagation
Cutting, Layering Propagation, Grafting Propagation, Air Layering Propagation, Division, Seed Propagation
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