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Description
Euphorbia Polycarpa, commonly known as the “Dwarf Spurge”, is a perennial succulent belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae. It is native to the Sonoran Desert of Arizona and California in the United States and northwestern Mexico. This plant is a popular choice for xeriscaping, as it is drought-tolerant and can thrive in hot and dry conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Euphorbiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
Appearance
Euphorbia Polycarpa grows up to a height of 6-12 inches and spreads up to a width of 12-24 inches. The plant features small, succulent, blue-green leaves that are arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. The leaves are about 1 inch long and 0.25 inches wide. The plant produces small, inconspicuous, yellow-green flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are followed by small, three-lobed seed capsules that turn reddish-brown when mature.
Care Guide
Euphorbia Polycarpa is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant only when the soil has completely dried out.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a cactus or succulent mix or add perlite or sand to the soil to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.
- Hardiness Zones: Euphorbia Polycarpa is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Euphorbia Polycarpa is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent infestations, inspect your plant regularly and use an insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Habitat
Euphorbia Polycarpa is native to the Sonoran Desert of Arizona and California in the United States and northwestern Mexico. It grows in dry, rocky areas, and can often be found growing alongside other succulents and cacti.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Euphorbia Polycarpa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, this plant is toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach of pets.
Q: Can Euphorbia Polycarpa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors in a sunny window. However, it may not flower as well as it would outdoors.
Q: How often should I water Euphorbia Polycarpa?
A: Water the plant only when the soil has completely dried out. This may be once a week or once a month, depending on the conditions.
Q: Can Euphorbia Polycarpa tolerate frost?
A: No, this plant is not frost-tolerant. It should be protected from frost and freezing temperatures.
Related Plants
- Euphorbia Milii
- Euphorbia Tirucalli
- Euphorbia Trigona
- Euphorbia Lactea
- Euphorbia Obesa
References
- “Euphorbia Polycarpa.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 July 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277090&isprofile=0.
- “Euphorbia Polycarpa.” Arizona State University. Accessed 20 July 2021. https://calscape.org/euphorbia-polycarpa-alias-curtisia-polycarpa-var-polycarpa-alias-euphorbia-curtisioides-alias-euphorbia-polycarpa-var-curtisioides-alias-euphorbia-curtisioides-2.
- “Euphorbia Polycarpa.” The Spruce. Accessed 20 July 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/euphorbia-polycarpa-profile-4848724.
