Scientific name: Euphorbia echinus
Common name: Euphorbia echinus
The spiny Succulent could be mistaken for a cactus. The green branches have between 5 and 8 ribs. Each rib has a spine. As it grows, it creates a shrub-like bush. There are dark red flowers.
Quick Look at Euphorbia echinus
- Full sun to partial shade
- Typical water needs for a succulent. Do not water in the Winter.
- Plant grows up to 4′ (1.2 m) tall
Plant grows up to 3′ (.9 m) wide - Zone 10a (Minimum 30° F | -1.1° C)
- Not cold hardy
- Propagation by stem cuttings and seeds
- Can be toxic to humans and animals
- Actively grows in Spring and Fall
General Care for Euphorbia echinus
It’s a great addition to rock gardens or planters. As it grows, it becomes a small shrub.
Watering
The watering needs for a echinus is typical. The “soak and dry” method will allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water in the winter when it is not active.
Where to Plant
If you live in a zone that gets colder than 30 F, it’s best to plant this plant in a container that can be brought indoors. It does well in both full and partial sun.
There is an area of your garden that gets 6 hours of sunlight a day.
How to Propagate Euphorbia echinus
Stems or seeds can be used to grow the echinus.
Cuttings
Follow the directions in this post to learn how to handle a cactus safely.
To remove a stem, you will need nitrile dipped gloves, silicone tongs, and a sharp knife.
Pull one of the cylindrical stems away from the main cluster using the tongs. If you can’t break it off without pulling up the rest of the plant, use the knife to cut through the stem.
Allow the end of the stem to be calloused for a few days before placing it in well-draining soil.
Seeds
There are seeds from the fruit of a mature Euphorbia echinus. You can place your seeds in a well-draining soil. If you live above 9a, you can grow Euphorbia seeds outdoors. If you live in a cooler area, you can sow indoors under a grow light or on a seed mat.
