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Euphorbia resinifera
Succulents like sunny and semi-shaded locations.
Always water a few days after the substrate has dried out. Reduce watering in winter.
It can withstand temperatures as low as -6.7 °C for short periods. However, the plant is not frost-resistant.
The stems of this plant resemble cacti, even though it belongs to the spurge family of succulents.
Euphorbia resinifera originates from Morocco, where it grows on the slopes of the Atlas Mountains. It is known by the common names Resin Spurge and African Spurge. The epithet resinifera means “resin-bearing” and refers to the toxic latex the plant releases when cut or damaged.
The plant forms a dense succulent shrub made up of thick, fleshy stems that resemble a cactus. The stems are dull green to blue-green, four-angled, and generally leafless. Along the edges run rows of short, sharp spines spaced about 1 cm apart, reaching up to around 0.6 cm in length. Euphorbia resinifera grows slowly, but over time it develops into a cushion-like clump up to about 60 cm tall and very broad.
The flowers are small and bright yellow, appearing from late winter into early spring. Outside its native habitat, flowering is rather rare, and the plant is mainly grown for its striking shape.
Euphorbia resinifera is an easy species that prefers a very bright position and well-draining soil. Watering should be kept moderate, and in winter it tolerates cooler, dry conditions much like a cactus. If you are looking for a hardy Euphorbia with a distinctive cushion-forming habit, Euphorbia resinifera is one of the most impressive choices.