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Euphorbia alluaudii cristata
Ideally place in partial shade, but it can also tolerate sunny locations.
Always water a few days after the substrate has dried out. Reduce watering in winter.
It can withstand temperatures as low as -3.9 °C for short periods. However, the plant is not frost-resistant.
It grows slowly but steadily — the result is a truly monumental plant over time.
Euphorbia alluaudii cristata is the crested form of Euphorbia alluaudii, also listed under the name Euphorbia leucodendron cristata. The original species comes from the warmer regions of southwestern Madagascar and is highly valued in cultivation for its unusual growth habit.
The plant forms flattened, irregularly shaped stems with a glossy green to yellow-green colour. Brown dots are often visible on the surface where leaves were previously attached. In summer, small green leaves may briefly appear at the tips of the branches, but they soon fall off. Over time, the crested growth can develop into a very striking and substantial specimen.
Inflorescences appear at the tops of the stems, with tiny cyathia typical of the genus Euphorbia. In crested forms, however, flowering is usually secondary, and the main attraction is the plant’s sculptural shape.
Euphorbia alluaudii cristata is relatively rare, and each plant has a unique form, often showing both crested and normal growth. It prefers a bright position and well-draining soil, watered sparingly only several days after the soil has completely dried out. Light fertilising is possible during the growing season. If you are looking for a collector’s Euphorbia with an impressive crested habit, this is one of the most interesting choices.