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Euphorbia polygona
Place the succulent in a sunny or partially shaded location. It is not particularly demanding when it comes to light.
Water only a few days after the substrate has completely dried out. Reduce watering during winter.
It can briefly tolerate temperatures down to -3.9 °C, but it is not frost hardy.
Although Euphorbia polygona looks like a cactus, it is actually a spurge. Its similar appearance evolved independently as an adaptation to life in arid environments.
Euphorbia polygona is a striking succulent native to South Africa, where it grows on rocky slopes and in dry shrubland of the Eastern Cape. Although it closely resembles a cactus, it is botanically a member of the Euphorbia genus.
The plant develops stout, upright stems with prominent ribs. Stem colour ranges from grey-green and bluish-green to purplish tones, which become even more intense in strong sunlight. Pairs of spines are arranged at regular intervals along the rib edges, giving the plant a remarkably symmetrical appearance. New growth and flower stalks are often an attractive burgundy-red colour. Mature specimens produce multiple stems over time, gradually forming compact clumps.
During the growing season, small yellow cyathia—the characteristic flowers of spurges—appear near the tops of the stems. Although modest in size, they provide an attractive contrast to the bold, geometric stems.
Euphorbia polygona thrives in a sunny location with a very well-draining mineral substrate and moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Thanks to its striking appearance and easy cultivation, it is one of the most popular columnar spurges.