Euphorbia aphylla (Candelabra Cactus, Leafless Spurge, Milk Hedge)


Botanical Information

FamilyEuphorbiaceae
GenusEuphorbia
Speciesaphylla
CategoryPerennials, Woody
TypeShrub (evergreen)
OriginNative to the Canary Islands.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone9b - 11b
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone9a and greater
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH1c - H3
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)- 5 to 10
Temperature (°F)23 to 60
Height50 cm
Flowering PeriodMarch, April, May, September, October, November

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionA short shrub that has slender, leafless stems. Flowers are produced in clusters at the end of the stems. The milky sap that is produced in this plant is poisonous, causing skin irritation and in some cases temporary blindness. Consumption of the plant can cause death; keep away from children and pets!
ShapeBranching.
LandscapeSucculent garden, garden edging, and rock garden.
PropagationPropagation by cuttings.
CultivationWell-drained soil, ideally with full sun though partial shade is okay.
PestsEuphorbia aphylla may be susceptible to mealy bugs, scale insects, occasionally spider mites.
Notable SpecimensChelsea Physic Garden, London, United Kingdom.
HabitatCoastal rocks and slopes facing the sea at elevations up to 150 m.

Photographs