
Are you a passionate gardener looking to add some exotic flair to your home or garden? If so, then Euphorbia Lactea also called Candelabra Cactus or Candlestick Cactus may be the perfect addition! This captivating cactus is extremely eye-catching tolerates low light levels and doesn’t require much maintenance. Below I will outline Euphorbia Lactea Cactus Care as well as how to successfully propagate. With just a few easy steps, even beginner gardeners can master the art of growing this stunning cactus with ease.
Overview of Mottled Spurge Cactus
As a gardener, I’m always on the lookout for unique and interesting plants to add to my collection. One of the plants that has recently caught my eye is the Euphorbia Lactea, also known as the mottled spurge cactus. Despite its name, this plant is not a cactus but rather a succulent. Its long, slender stems are adorned with fascinating vertical ridges that give it a sculptural quality. One of the things that I appreciate about Euphorbia Lactea is that it is relatively easy to care for, making it a great plant for beginner gardeners. Plus, it adds an eye-catching pop of green to any collection. If you’re a fan of cacti and succulents, I highly recommend giving this plant a try!
How to Care for Candlestick Cactus
Euphorbia Lactea, commonly known as Candlestick Cactus or Mottled Spurge is a popular houseplant that is native to Madagascar. The best advice I can give is to treat it like a cactus – make sure to provide it with plenty of sunlight and don’t overwater it. These plants are extremely sensitive to overwatering, so you want to let the soil dry out completely before watering it again. Additionally, you should avoid getting water on the foliage, as it can lead to fungal diseases. With a little bit of care and attention, your Euphorbia Lactea will thrive and make a gorgeous addition to your home.
Pot Type for Euphorbia Lactea Cactus
As a passionate gardener, I know that finding the right pot for your plants is crucial for their health and well-being. When it comes to the Euphorbia Lactea cactus, the pot type is just as important as any other element in its care. This cactus requires a pot that allows for proper drainage, as it is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. A clay pot is a fantastic option for this species, as it naturally wicks away excess moisture and provides adequate ventilation for the roots. Additionally, the weight of the clay pot will prevent the Euphorbia Lactea from toppling over once it reaches maturity. Choosing the right pot type is just one small step in cultivating a thriving cactus garden.
Soil Type for Euphorbia Lactea Cactus
As a gardener, it’s important to provide the right soil type for your plants to thrive. When it comes to Euphorbia lactea cactus, the soil should be well-draining and slightly acidic. This will allow for proper water absorption while also preventing root rot. It’s important to note that cacti don’t typically do well in overly moist soil, so make sure to find a balance that works for your specific species. I prefer a succulent/cactus mix and if you want you can add extra pumice and perlite to increase the drainage.
Water Requirements for your Euphorbia Lactea
We all know how important it is to make sure that your plants are getting the right amount of water. This rings true for your euphorbia lactea cactus. These beauties are low-maintenance and don’t require too much attention, but when it comes to watering, you want to make sure you’re doing it right. Overwatering this cactus can lead to root rot and other issues, so it’s important to let the soil dry out completely before giving it another drink. A good rule of thumb is to water your Euphorbia Lactea once a week in warmer months and every two weeks in cooler months. Remember, this cactus is adapted to arid conditions, so it’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering. Your Euphorbia Lactea will thank you with striking, healthy growth.
Light Requirments for Euphorbia Lactea Cactus
Light is an essential ingredient in the successful cultivation of Euphorbia Lactea. This species thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, which means that it should be placed somewhere where it receives plenty of light but not too much direct sun. If you’re growing this plant indoors, make sure to find a spot near a window that gets plenty of sunlight. Additionally, you can supplement the natural light with an LED grow light if needed.
Temperature Requirements for Euphorbia Lactea Cactus
The ideal temperature range for the Euphorbia lactea cactus is between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit. This species prefers warmer climates, but it won’t do well in temperatures that are too high. If you’re growing this cactus indoors, try to keep the temperature consistent and away from any sources of heat like radiators or air conditioners. Additionally, it’s important to note that temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can lead to shock in your Euphorbia Lactea and stunted growth. You can always place one of these ThermaPro thermometers to monitor your temps around your plants.
Feeding Requirements for Euphorbia Lactea Cactus
Your Euphorbia Lactea may not need a lot of attention, but that doesn’t mean it should go without food. Just like any other plant, the cactus needs proper nutrition to stay healthy and produce beautiful blooms. The best way to feed your Euphorbia Lactea is with a balanced liquid cactus fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks in the warmer months and once a month in the cooler months. This will ensure that your cactus has all the nutrients it needs to thrive.
How to Propagate Euphorbia Lactea, Mottled Spurge, Candlestick Cactus
As a gardener, one of the most satisfying things you can do is propagate your plants. If you’re interested in propagating Euphorbia Lactea, also known as Mottled Spurge or Candlestick Cactus, there are a few things you should know. First, it’s important to start with a healthy parent plant, as this will impact the success of your cuttings. You’ll also need to make sure you have the right tools, including a sharp, clean knife for taking your cuttings.
And be sure to take the cuttings from the top of the plant, as these will be the strongest and healthiest. Once you take your cuttings from the top of your Euphorbia Lactea plant, you’ll want to let them dry out for a few days before putting them in the soil. This will give the cuts time to callous over and promote healthy growth. Then, fill a pot with a well-draining succulent mix or cactus potting soil and place the cuttings so that only the top few inches are exposed. Water them lightly, making sure not to drown them, and keep the soil moist but not soggy. Your Euphorbia Lactea plants should begin sprouting roots and new growth in no time! Good luck with your propagation journey!
Happy Gardening!
Overall, Euphorbia Lactea cactus, Mottled Spurge, and Candlestick Cactus are an amazing addition to any collector’s plant family. Anyone who adds these spiky succulents to their home will be mesmerized by their unique shapes and surprising hardiness. The best way to ensure your plants stay healthy is to properly care for them by providing them with the right pot type, soil type, and water requirements. Similarly, if you want to increase your plant collection, be sure to follow the steps for propagation. Now that you know more about how to care for Euphorbia Lactea cactus, Mottled Spurge, or Candlestick Cactus. Remember, with a little patience and knowledge they can live long happy lives in your home! So why wait? Add the Euphorbia Lactea Cactus to your collection today!
Please be sure to check out my Gardening Blog Post Page for more tips on all types of gardening. Including Seed Starting, Orchids, Water Gardening, Coldframe Gardening, Indoor Bulb Gardening, Hydroponics, Container Gardening, Mums, Herbs, African Violets, planting Bulbs, Flower Gardening, Vegetable and Fruit Gardening, Indoor Houseplants of all kinds, Cactus, Succulents, Hanging plants, Deer resistant plants and even Bird, Bee, Butterfly and Hummingbird Gardens!


