Contents
Description
Euphorbia Helioscopia, also known as Sun Spurge, is a herbaceous annual plant that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. The plant can grow up to 40cm in height and has a branching stem. It produces yellow-green flowers that are small and unremarkable. The leaves are oval-shaped, about 2-3cm long, and are arranged oppositely on the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
Appearance
Euphorbia Helioscopia has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants. It has a branching stem with green leaves that have a slight yellow tint. The flowers are small and yellow-green, and the plant produces a milky sap that can be toxic if ingested. The leaves and stems of the plant are covered in small hairs that give it a fuzzy appearance.
Care Guide
Water: Euphorbia Helioscopia prefers to be kept dry and does not require frequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering, and be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but a diluted all-purpose fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is not too fertile. A cactus mix or sandy soil is ideal.
Sunlight: Euphorbia Helioscopia prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Euphorbia Helioscopia is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Euphorbia Helioscopia is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It can be found in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers dry, sunny areas and can tolerate poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Euphorbia Helioscopia toxic?
A: Yes, the plant produces a milky sap that can be toxic if ingested.
Q: Can Euphorbia Helioscopia be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a sunny location and not overwatered.
Q: How often should Euphorbia Helioscopia be watered?
A: The plant prefers to be kept dry and does not require frequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering.
Q: Does Euphorbia Helioscopia require fertilizer?
A: The plant does not require fertilizer, but a diluted all-purpose fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Euphorbia Polychroma
- Euphorbia Cyparissias
- Euphorbia Lathyris
- Euphorbia Esula
References
- “Euphorbia helioscopia L.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 29 September 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:345355-1
- “Euphorbia helioscopia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 29 September 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282806&isprofile=0&
- “Euphorbia helioscopia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 29 September 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11084/euphorbia-helioscopia/details
