Crested Euphorbia is an incredibly beautiful and unique plant, with its fascinatingly curled leaves resembling a crest. It is a species of the larger Euphorbia genus and is found mainly in India. Keep reading for some great crested euphorbia care tips!
Crested Euphorbia requires some special care due to its delicate nature. This unique species of succulents has fan-shaped branches that resemble a coral reef you may swim around in the ocean.
Its unique appearance makes it an ideal choice to add as decor in your home or garden.
What are Euphorbia Plants?
Crested Euphorbia is a succulent perennial with soft, blue-green foliage and a tendency to curl. It is native to India and can grow up to 60 cm tall.
This plant will remain small if it’s not allowed enough light or space, so you need to make sure you give it plenty of both. Crested Euphorbia is also commonly known as Mermaid Tail, due to its highly-curled foliage.
Coral Cactus Care
Here is a quick crested euphorbia care guide before getting into the details:
Crested Euphorbia needs bright direct sunlight and moist soil to thrive. It should be watered regularly, but allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Too much moisture will cause root rot and can kill your plant. The soil should be well-draining, and fertilizing with a balanced formula in the spring is recommended.
The temperature should range between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and it likes humidity levels of 50%-60%. If you’re going to prune your crest euphorbia, do it during the early summer months. You can also repot the plant in the spring when it’s actively growing.
Growth and Size
Crested Euphorbia can reach up to 60 cm tall, but will usually stay much smaller if not given enough space or light. It is slow-growing and doesn’t need to be pruned often.
Flowering
Crested euphoria rarely flowers, but when it does, it blooms small pink or purple flowers. You will need to be patient since this unusual plant needs to be at least a year old and thriving during the spring for it to produce any flowers.
Temperature and Light Conditions
Crested Euphorbia prefers bright indirect sunlight and temperatures between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It also likes humidity levels of 50%-60%.
If your plant is getting too much light, it will start to stretch out and its leaves may yellow with age. If grown outside, your euphorbia will prefer partial sun to full sunlight.
Water and Fertilizer
Crested Euphorbia should be watered regularly but allow the wet soil to dry out completely between waterings. Excessive watering will cause root rot and can kill your plant.
When fertilizing, use a balanced formula and apply it in the spring when the plant is actively growing.
Type of Soil and Transplanting
Crested Euphorbia prefers well-drained soil or sandy soil that is slightly acidic or neutral pH levels. You can use a standard cactus or succulent potting mix. When transplanting, make sure to be gentle with the roots and avoid damaging them.
How to Maintain Mermaid Tail Succulent
Maintaining a mermaid tail succulent is easy and straightforward. It needs bright indirect sunlight, temperatures between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, adequate moisture but not too moist soil, and regular fertilizing with a balanced formula.
Does the Euphorbia Canariensis Need a Ceramic Container?
No, the Euphorbia Canariensis does not need a ceramic container. This succulent can be planted in any type of pot or container as long as it has a drainage hole and is bigger than its root ball. You can also use cactus soil mix to help with drainage.
Types of Euphorbia
The Euphorbia genus contains more than 2,000 species of succulent plants from around the world. Some popular types of Crested Euphorbia and plants in the Euphorbia family include:
- Euphorbia lactea cristata plant
- Euphorbia neriifolia
- Euphorbia ingens
- Euphorbia canariensis
- Euphorbia lactea White Ghost
Euphorbia lactea cristata plant is one of several common names for the crested euphorbia.
Euphorbia neriifolia is also known as Indian spurgetree. It is a perennial succulent, with a thin trunk covered in thorns and leaves near the top that look similar to that of a plumeria tree.
Euphorbia ingens are large succulents that look similar to trees and are a popular houseplant. Euphorbia canariensis is considered a succulent shrub and can grow up to 13 feet tall, although it is more common for it to grow to about half that height.
Euphorbia lactea White Ghost looks similar to the crested euphorbia, but it has white to very light green leaves that are variegated.
Propagating Euphorbia Genus
Propagating a euphorbia plant is easy when you know what to do. Purchase a Euphorbia neriifolia and Euphorbia lactea plant for grafting. You will also need to buy grafting wax and something to tie the two plants together until they are grafted.
For the best results, use clean, sharp shears to cut a V in the root of Euphorbia neriifolia and crest of Euphorbia lactea. Make sure to place grafting wax on the outside area where the two plants are to be grafted.
In a few weeks, you should be able to remove the wax and enjoy your own crested euphorbia as one plant!
Most Common Problems
The most common problem when growing crested euphorbia is overwatering. Too much moisture can cause root rot and kill your plant.
Other problems include too much direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to burn, and incorrect fertilizing. Make sure you are giving your plant the right amount of water and fertilizer for optimal growth.
Crested Euphorbia is an incredibly beautiful and unique succulent that requires special care due to its delicate nature.
Is the Crested Candelabra Plant Poisonous?
The Crested Euphorbia is poisonous and has known toxic effects on both humans and animals. The milky sap can also cause skin irritation if contact occurs.
To avoid this, make sure you wear gloves and eye protection when handling and pruning your plant. Also, keep children and pets away from the plant in case of accidental ingestion.
Common Pests and Diseases
Crested Euphorbia is susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, brown spots, and powdery mildew. These common pests and diseases can ruin the stems and leaves of your euphorbia plant.
To keep them away, make sure to inspect your plant regularly for signs of infestation. You can also spray a neem oil solution or insecticidal soap on the affected areas.
Crested Euphorbia is also susceptible to root rot and fungal infection. To prevent these, make sure you’re not overwatering your plant and use a well-draining soil.
If you notice any signs of disease, remove the affected leaves or stems immediately and treat with a fungicide or chemical solution for a healthy plant.
Summer Season Crested Euphorbia Care Tips
During the summer months, Crested Euphorbia should be pruned and repotted in the spring if showing signs of growth. You can also fertilize it with a balanced formula to help promote healthy growth.
Your crested euphorbia plant will need plenty of bright indirect sunlight if grown indoors. The temperature needs to stay between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Water regularly but allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Following these simple tips will ensure that your Crested Euphorbia is healthy and thriving all summer long!
How to Care for Euphorbia During the Winter Months
During the winter months, Crested Euphorbia should be given a few extra precautions. Try to keep it away from drafts and cold temperatures, as this can cause damage to your plant.
It needs minimal water during the winter months and avoid fertilizing until spring. With some extra care and attention, you can ensure your plants stay healthy all year round.
Crested Euphorbia is an amazing succulent to have in your garden or home. Follow the tips above to keep your crested euphorbia healthy and happy.
Crested Euphorbia Care Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions you may have about crested euphorbia care that will help you enjoy your crested cactus for many years!
Does Euphorbia need direct sunlight?
No, it likes bright indirect sunlight when grown indoors. It can grow in partial shade or direct sunlight when outdoors. It’s also important to give your plant enough space so it can grow to its full size.
If you’re not providing adequate light or space, your plant will stay small and have yellowed leaves. Providing enough light and space will ensure your plant stays healthy and vibrant.
How do you care for Euphorbia lactea crested?
Euphorbia lactea crested requires bright indirect sunlight, temperatures between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, moist soil, and regular fertilizing with a balanced formula.
Prune it during the early summer months and repot in the spring when actively growing. You should also watch out for pests and diseases to enjoy this relatively low maintenance shrub.
How do you care for Euphorbia Cristata?
Caring for a Euphorbia Cristata is similar to caring for other euphorbia plants. It prefers bright indirect sunlight, temperatures between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit, and slightly acidic or neutral pH levels soil.
You should also water regularly but allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Fertilize with a balanced formula in the spring and summer when it is actively growing.
Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and make sure to remove any affected leaves or stems immediately. With proper care and maintenance, you can keep your Euphorbia Cristata healthy and enjoy its gorgeous foliage.
How do you take care of an Euphorbia in the winter?
In the winter, your Euphorbia should be kept in a bright area with temperatures between 45-55 degrees Fahrenheit. You should also reduce watering and fertilizing as the plant is not actively growing at this time.
Make sure to keep an eye out for pests that may become active during this season. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat with a neem oil solution or insecticidal soap.
With the right care, your Euphorbia will remain healthy during the winter months and resume growth in the spring.
Crested Euphorbia Care Conclusion
These crested euphorbia care tips will help you enjoy this unique crested cactus with attractive green deciduous foliage.
If you’re looking to add some variety to your succulent collection, Crested Euphorbia is a great choice! With its soft blue-green foliage and delicate nature, it’s sure to make a statement in any home or garden. Have fun growing your own Crested Euphorbia!