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Overview
Euphorbia aeruginosa is a clumping succulent that forms an upright collection of extremely thorny stems. It is however quite decorative having green stems and ochre red spines.
It bears small yellow flowers which add to its appeal.
This is a plant for xeriscaping and dry gravel gardens in amongst other succulents and cactii.
Soil: Coarse, sandy, light soils that are extremely well drained soil in a full sun location.
Maintenance: Never let them get waterlogged or they will rot.
Unlike some succulents, however, they do not tolerate long periods of drought, so keep them watered, albeit only once every ten days to two weeks at most, during summer. Just test the soil and only water when it is dry.
If kept in posts then fertilise three to four times over summer with a weak, diluted liquid fertiliser.
Propagate from cuttings as seed propagation can be rather hit and miss.
Diseases: Few problems noted.
Toxicity: As with all EUPHORBIACEAE the milky sap is toxic and can irritate the skin and eyes.
Wear gloves and eye protection when pruning or moving these plants.
Author: Bob Saunders.