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.
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Sprouts of Bristol
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Bristol
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Had a desire box was ok but one plant not potted.. others very small.. rescue box from else’s where bigger plants and stronger looking
Had to grab this one as the pastel green was so pretty. There is a water resivour at the bottom to stop plants sitting in water so its perfect for orchids but at the moment I'm using it for another plant.
Wanted one of these for ages so I had to jump at the size and price of this plant. Stunning large leaves and has already grown loads
Lovely little plant beautifully packaged. Arrived in perfect condition at a great price. Thank you so much :)
I bought a 'medium' and what arrived was a very generously sized plant which I was very happy with . Plant was in good condition, and was very carefully wrapped for shipping.