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Description
Euphorbia Balsamifera, also known as sweet spurge, is a perennial succulent plant that belongs to the Euphorbia family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, but it can also be found in other parts of the world. This plant typically grows up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a mounding habit. It produces small, fragrant, yellow-green flowers in the spring and summer. The sap of this plant is poisonous and can cause skin irritation and eye damage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
Appearance
Euphorbia Balsamifera has a unique appearance with its blue-green leaves and upright stems. The leaves are arranged in whorls around the stem and are oval-shaped with a pointed tip. The stems are green and have small bumps or ridges. The flowers are small and yellow-green, and they grow in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant also produces small, round seed pods that split open when ripe.
Care Guide
Euphorbia Balsamifera is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water your plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but be careful not to let the soil dry out completely.Fertilization: Euphorbia Balsamifera does not require a lot of fertilizer. You can use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can use a cactus or succulent mix to ensure good drainage.Sunlight: Euphorbia Balsamifera prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Euphorbia Balsamifera is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so be sure to let the soil dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Euphorbia Balsamifera is native to the Mediterranean region, but it can also be found in other parts of the world, including North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. It grows in rocky or sandy soil in dry or arid environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Euphorbia Balsamifera poisonous?
A: Yes, the sap of this plant is poisonous and can cause skin irritation and eye damage.Q: Does Euphorbia Balsamifera require a lot of water?
A: No, this plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Euphorbia Balsamifera?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.Q: What type of soil does Euphorbia Balsamifera prefer?
A: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A cactus or succulent mix is recommended.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Euphorbia family:
- Euphorbia pulcherrima (Poinsettia)
- Euphorbia lactea (Dragon Bones)
- Euphorbia tirucalli (Pencil Cactus)
- Euphorbia milii (Crown of Thorns)
References
- “Euphorbia balsamifera.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283543.
- “Euphorbia balsamifera.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed June 22, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/euphorbia-balsamifera.
- “Euphorbia balsamifera.” World of Succulents. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/euphorbia-balsamifera-sweet-spurge/.
