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Description
Euphorbia Portlandica, also known as Portland Spurge, is a perennial succulent plant native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the Euphorbia family, which contains over 2,000 species of plants. This plant typically grows up to 30 cm tall and spreads up to 60 cm wide. It produces green, yellow, or red flowers in the late spring to early summer, which are surrounded by showy, bright green bracts. The flowers and stems contain a milky, white sap that can cause skin irritation and is toxic if ingested.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
Appearance
Euphorbia Portlandica has a unique appearance with its fleshy, succulent leaves that are arranged in rosettes along the stems. The leaves are bright green and have a lanceolate shape, growing up to 10 cm long and 1 cm wide. The stems are green and have a zigzag growth pattern, with small, inconspicuous leaves growing along their length. The flowers of Euphorbia Portlandica are small and clustered together, surrounded by bright green bracts that are larger and showier than the flowers themselves. The bracts are oval-shaped and grow up to 3 cm long and 2 cm wide.
Care Guide
Euphorbia Portlandica is a relatively low maintenance plant, but there are a few things to keep in mind when caring for it:
- Water: Water Euphorbia Portlandica sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize Euphorbia Portlandica once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Euphorbia Portlandica in well-draining soil, such as cactus or succulent soil.
- Sunlight: Euphorbia Portlandica prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Euphorbia Portlandica is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Euphorbia Portlandica is susceptible to a few pests and diseases:
- Mealybugs: These soft-bodied insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Euphorbia Portlandica is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soils. It is often found growing in coastal areas, and is tolerant of salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Euphorbia Portlandica toxic?
A: Yes, the milky sap of Euphorbia Portlandica is toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation.
Q: Can Euphorbia Portlandica be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Euphorbia Portlandica can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location.
Q: How often should I water Euphorbia Portlandica?
A: Water Euphorbia Portlandica sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Euphorbia Portlandica require special soil?
A: Yes, Euphorbia Portlandica should be planted in well-draining soil, such as cactus or succulent soil.
Related Plants
- Euphorbia characias
- Euphorbia rigida
- Euphorbia griffithii
- Euphorbia amygdaloides
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/euphorbia/portland-spurge-care.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10239/Euphorbia-portlandica/Details
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/euphorbia-portlandica-portland-spurge
