Nicaise Spurge

euphorbia nicaeensis

Also known as: ["Nicaise Spurge","Nicaise Euphorbia"]

Family: Euphorbiaceae Genus: Euphorbia Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant with milky sap, native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its yellow-green flowers and hardy nature.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Genus: Euphorbia
Botanical Name: Euphorbia nicaeensis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, xeriscapes, or sunny borders
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
  • 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: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun but acclimate gradually to avoid scorching.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun slowly over weeks; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct sun in summer afternoons.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Allow soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or rocky soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure fast drainage; avoid waterlogging; use porous pots.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions; reduce watering in cooler months.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings; allow cut ends to callous for a few days before planting.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cutting.
  2. Let callous.
  3. Plant in dry soil.
  4. Water lightly.
  5. Maintain warmth and indirect light.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; keep soil lightly moist.

Medium

Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and sand.

Hormone

Not necessary but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 1–2 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining soil, small pot.

Quick Tips

Let cuttings callous to prevent rot; use well-draining soil; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems just above a node or junction; wear gloves to avoid sap irritation.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and health; encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.

Checklist

Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut above nodes; dispose of pruned material.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh well-draining soil.

Checklist

Choose right pot size; use fresh soil; trim roots if crowded; ensure drainage.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; adjust based on humidity and temperature.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; use cactus mix as base; avoid heavy garden soil.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause root damage, and increases susceptibility to pests in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering; protect from drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting due to excessive heat and dryness.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use shade cloth outdoors.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Euphorbia nicaeensis may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Euphorbia nicaeensis can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, disrupting the plant's ability to maintain turgor pressure and leading to reduced growth.

Leaf spots on Euphorbia nicaeensis may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Euphorbia nicaeensis due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from Euphorbia nicaeensis upon ingestion, with the milky sap being particularly irritating. The diterpene esters can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite oral irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
milky sap leaves stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of Euphorbia nicaeensis by dogs can cause significant gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant diterpene esters. The sap can also cause oral and esophageal irritation if舔 or chewed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
drooling vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
milky sap leaves stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Keep plants away from pets. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Euphorbia nicaeensis contains diterpene esters in its milky sap, which can cause skin irritation, inflammation, and allergic reactions upon contact. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects due to the irritant nature of the compounds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
skin irritation rash burning sensation nausea vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
milky sap leaves stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if touched or ingested

Avoid direct contact with the sap. Wear gloves when handling and wash hands thoroughly afterward. Keep out of reach of children.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Euphorbia nicaeensis toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How should I care for Euphorbia nicaeensis?

A: It requires well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, with minimal watering once established.

Q: Does Euphorbia nicaeensis attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Spurge Olive
View
Queensland poplar
View
Nipplewort
View
Myrtle Spurge
View