Myrtle Spurge
euphorbia myrsinites
Also known as: ["Blue Spurge","Donkey Tail Spurge"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with blue-gray, cylindrical leaves arranged in a spiral pattern on trailing stems.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia myrsinites |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden, container, or xeriscaped area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, removing only dead or overgrown parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to bright indirect light, 6–8 hours per day. Adjust for intense summer sun by providing partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. Place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if outdoors. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct midday sun in summer; use sheer curtains if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain moderate warmth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use bottom heat for faster rooting; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim stems back to the base or desired length, ensuring cuts are clean and angled.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too big to avoid overwatering.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Euphorbias prefer being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots gently; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring moisture reaches the lower roots. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure water drains freely to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage or leaf drop.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, or wilting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicEuphorbia myrsinites is slightly toxic to cats if ingested, primarily due to the irritating latex sap. The plant can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe latex sap of Euphorbia myrsinites is irritating to dogs if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset. The plant contains compounds that can irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicEuphorbia myrsinites contains latex sap that is irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal distress due to the presence of diterpene esters and other irritant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphorbia myrsinites toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought tolerant.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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