At first coup d’oeil , Euphorbia knuthii might befool you into thinking it ’s a quirky cactus relation . With its thickheaded , gnarly caudex ( plant stem ) up to 13 inches in diam forming the radix , and ridged , spiny offshoot splaying outwards , this succulent shrub has an otherworldly , almost exotic appearance . But do n’t be fooled by its cactus - like disguise – Euphorbia knuthii is a gripping flora with its own singular appealingness and refinement need . Read on to unveil the secrets of this desert eccentric .
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About Euphorbia knuthii
Native to the semi - arid , rocky regions of South Africa , Euphorbia knuthii is a shrubby succulent that can touch up to 3 metrical unit tall when ripe . Its most distinctive feature is the swollen , contorted caudex that forms the foot , allowing the plant life to hive away water like a artificial lake . The limb are cover in ridge and spines , giving them an artfully sculptural feeling . With their inclination to trail downwards rather than rise vertical , these plants make striking additions to hanging baskets or wall gardens .
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Euphorbia knuthii Care Guide
Light Requirements
Euphorbia knuthii thrives in full sun , require at least 6 hours of direct sunlightdaily . In hot climates , some good afternoon tone may be beneficial to prevent leaf scorching . Indoors , place your plant near a sunny , south - face window . If natural light is insufficient , invest in aquality grow lightdesigned for succulent to supplement kindling needs .
Watering Needs
Euphorbia knuthii is drought - large-minded , so take precaution not to over - H2O . During spring to go down growth , reserve the top 2 - 3 inches of territory to amply dry out out betweenthorough lacrimation , which will be just about every 7 - 10 daylight .
In winter dormancy , reduce tearing importantly to once a month or just enough to prevent shriveling . Always water in the morning to allow moisture to evaporate from the plant before Nox .
Soil Preferences
Like most succulents , Euphorbia knuthii does best in a well - drain dirt mix . The ideal blend contains adequate share potting grunge and vulgar sand or perlite to increase drain and aeration . Or , simply practice aquality commercial succulent dirt mixfor unfailing final result .
Fertilizing Tips
While not heavy feeders , an casual window pane ofsucculent fertilizerduring the spring to fall growing season will give your Euphorbia knuthii a nutritional rise . select a balanced fluid plant food load to half strength . irksome - release granular fertilizers are another broken - maintenance alternative . Hold off on fertilise during wintertime dormancy .
Temperature and Humidity
These plants favour reasonably strong , dry conditions . daylight temperatures from 70 - 90 ° fluorine and nighttime around 55 - 65 ° F are ideal . Euphorbia knuthii can bear periods of modest humidity but does apprize around 50 % relative humidity if possible .
Pests and Problems
Two coarse pests to watch for are spider mites andmealybugs , which can quickly infest the plant if leave uncurbed . Use insecticidal max , neem crude or other succulent - safe remedies at the first sign of trouble .
Pruning
Regular pruning is n’t rigorously necessary , but you could trim off elongated , unsightly maturation as needed to asseverate the industrial plant ’s compact shape and aesthetic .
Potting and Repotting
Whenpottingorrepotting , ensure the container has ample drain holes and apply a well - draining cactus / succulent soil . Allow the stock to rest slightly above the soil line . Repot every 2 - 3 years in leap .
Euphorbia knuthii Propagation Methods
This unique industrial plant can be propagated from either source or shank cutting :
Seeds :
Stem Cuttings :
With its enchanting , alien - similar appearance and easy - concern nature , Euphorbia knuthii makes an excellent addition to homes or gardens – a keep , sculptural chef-d’oeuvre disguised as a cactus ! Give this hardy succulent a endeavor for low - sustainment grain and whimsy .
