Contents
Description
Euphorbia Oblongata is a perennial shrub that belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its striking appearance. The plant can grow up to 60-80cm tall and 50-60cm wide. It has greenish-grey leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers are small and clustered together in a terminal inflorescence. The plant produces milky sap that can cause skin irritation and is toxic if ingested.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
Appearance
Euphorbia Oblongata has a unique appearance that makes it a popular ornamental plant. The leaves are greenish-grey and oblong in shape, measuring about 2-5cm in length. The stem is upright, branched, and sparsely covered with leaves. The flowers are small and yellow-green, measuring about 5mm in diameter. They are arranged in a terminal inflorescence that can grow up to 15cm long. The plant produces milky sap that can be irritating to the skin and toxic if ingested.
Care Guide
Euphorbia Oblongata is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: Water your plant deeply but infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid heavy soils that retain moisture.
- Sunlight: Euphorbia Oblongata prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Euphorbia Oblongata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Euphorbia Oblongata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to yellow and wilt.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause the leaves to become stippled and discolored.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if the soil is too wet and poorly drained.
Habitat
Euphorbia Oblongata is native to South Africa and is found growing in rocky outcrops and dry, sandy soils. It is well adapted to hot, dry climates and can withstand periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Euphorbia Oblongata poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant produces milky sap that can be toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation.
Q: What is the best soil for Euphorbia Oblongata?
A: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid heavy soils that retain moisture.
Q: How often should I water Euphorbia Oblongata?
A: Water deeply but infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Euphorbia Oblongata?
A: Euphorbia Oblongata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Euphorbia milii
- Euphorbia pulcherrima
- Euphorbia lactea
- Euphorbia rigida
References
- “Euphorbia oblongata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed March 24, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k790.
- “Euphorbia oblongata.” PlantZAfrica.com. Accessed March 24, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/euphorbia-oblongata.
- “Euphorbia oblongata.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed March 24, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/249262/Euphorbia-oblongata/Details.
