Sea Spurge
euphorbia paralias
Also known as: ["Beach Spurge","Sand Spurge"]
Overview
A coastal plant with succulent stems and small yellow-green flowers, adapted to sandy and saline environments.
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 paralias |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens, rockeries, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- 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 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may stretch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in summer; place in the brightest window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy potting soils; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut a healthy stem.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Cactus mix or perlite and sand mixture.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, pot, cactus mix.
Quick Tips
Use gloves to avoid sap irritation; ensure cut end is dry before planting; maintain humidity with a plastic bag.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a node or junction; wear gloves to avoid sap contact.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and health; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; wear gloves; cut cleanly; dispose of trimmings safely.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus mix; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; needed if growth slows or soil degrades.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; use a mix with minimal organic matter to prevent water retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or yellowing in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may develop root rot if soil stays wet in cold; leaves may turn purple or brown.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil dries quickly; use a heat mat if needed.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; soil dries faster; plant may wilt despite watering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with stems.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Euphorbia paralias, particularly if they ingest any part of the plant. The milky sap can cause severe irritation to the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract, leading to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Euphorbia paralias by dogs can lead to severe gastrointestinal irritation and systemic toxicity due to the plant's latex compounds. The milky sap is particularly irritating if it comes into contact with mucous membranes or open wounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicThe milky sap of Euphorbia paralias contains diterpenoid esters that are highly irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects due to the plant's latex compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sea Spurge toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Sea Spurge require much care?
A: No, it is very low maintenance and highly tolerant of harsh conditions.
Q: Where is Sea Spurge commonly found?
A: It grows naturally in coastal areas, particularly in sandy or saline soils.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
