Euphorbia ritchiei
TAXONOMY
FamilyEuphorbiaceae
GenusEuphorbia
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Euphorbia ritchiei, a member of the Euphorbiaceae family, is a succulent subshrub native to desert or dry shrubland climates. It is known for its drought tolerance and unique appearance, often featuring thick, fleshy stems. This plant undergoes a dormancy period of about two months during the cooler seasons.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Cactus Oruga
Cactus Paraguas
Madusa's Head
Medusas Head
Medusa's Head Cactus
Pencil Tree
Monadenium ritchiei
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Dry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity30%
Dormancy2 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Euphorbia ritchiei thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers warm temperatures. It requires minimal watering, making it ideal for dry environments. Ensure the plant is kept in a low-humidity setting to mimic its natural habitat.Soil
This plant prefers sandy soil with excellent drainage to prevent root rot. A cactus or succulent soil mix is ideal. Avoid using heavy or clay soils that retain moisture.Fertilizer
Euphorbia ritchiei benefits from a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 2-7-7. Fertilize sparingly, about once a month during the growing season, and avoid fertilizing during dormancy.Repotting
Repot Euphorbia ritchiei every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Use a well-draining soil mix and a pot with drainage holes. Handle the plant carefully to avoid damaging its roots.Propagation
Propagate Euphorbia ritchiei through stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry and callous for a few days before planting them in a well-draining soil mix. Propagation is best done during the growing season.Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Euphorbia ritchiei. However, you can remove any dead or damaged stems to maintain its appearance.Toxicity
Euphorbia ritchiei is toxic to pets and humans. The sap can cause skin irritation and, if ingested, can lead to gastrointestinal issues. Handle with care and keep out of reach of children and pets.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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