Scientific Name Euphorbia polyacantha (Euphorbus' plant with many thorns)
Common Name Fishbone Thistle, Fishbone Cactus, Fishbone Thistle Cactus
Origin Native to South Yemen, Sudan and Ethiopia
Description This Euphorbia grows in the mountains of Northeastern Africa, where it is used to scarce rainfall and plenty of bright sun. As a houseplants, its deep green flesh and grey spines help it stand out, as well as the interesting shapes it grows into as new branches reach out in different directions. Add this interesting cactus to your collection, give it plenty of light and not too much water and it may even reward you with bright yellow flowers in spring! Light Euphorbia like bright light, and can cope with direct sun; choose a window that gets a few hours of direct sun in the morning or evening for best results. Water This cactus cannot cope well with having constantly moist soil, so make sure it dries out totally between waters. If your plant is in a position with less direct light, be extra careful not to overwater it!
Humidity This cactus is adapted to arid (dry) conditions so does not need a humid location at all. If it's getting dusty feel free to hose down to clean, just make sure it can dry out quickly. Soil Use a well-draining soil designed for cacti and succulents, usually a mix with added grit and sand. Repot every three to four years in spring as the plant grows.
Food Feed every two in spring and summer; reduce to every three in autumn and winter. Temperature Average temperatures of 15-32°C are fine; make sure it doesn't get colder than 12°C in winter.
Pet-safe No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans, as well as having sharp spikes!
Sprouts Top Tips If you notice brown discolouration on your Euphorbia's stems, check closer before you act; if it is soggy you may need to take cuttings to save it, but if it is 'corking' and the brown is more like hard scabs, this is natural and not a concern.
We have launched our first (hopefully monthly) ‘Letter from the Founder’ blog post. I talk about a string of bad luck, from water gushing from various ceilings in my life to a break-in, and also reflect on the incredible work we have done to win two awards earlier this year. I look ahead to what’s coming up in August, projects we are working on with our clients, and some thoughts about the rest of the year. And I give an insight into my brain, why I am who I am and why I’m so thankful for all the opportunities, passion and excitement that running Sprouts has given me as a founder and as a woman.