Coral plant, Spurflower
excoecaria cochinchinensis
Also known as: ["Jewel of the Orient","Coral plant","Spurflower"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub known for its striking, colorful foliage and milky sap that can cause skin irritation.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Excoecaria |
| Botanical Name: | Excoecaria cochinchinensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor location with bright indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months 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 some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for brighter light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Do not over-fertilize; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply after watering to avoid root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity around cuttings; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushier form; prune to control size and shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of cuttings carefully (plant is toxic).
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a 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
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting leaves to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth; wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or discoloration; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Excoecaria cochinchinensis, particularly the sap and leaves, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and dermatological reactions. The plant's irritant compounds are harmful if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
ToxicThe plant's sap and leaves are toxic to dogs, causing significant gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation upon contact. The diterpene compounds can lead to inflammation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
ToxicExcoecaria cochinchinensis contains diterpene esters, particularly ingenol mebutate, which are highly irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Excoecaria cochinchinensis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: What are the care requirements for this plant?
A: It requires moderate care, including well-draining soil and indirect light.
Q: Does this plant have any medicinal uses?
A: No known medicinal uses are documented for this species.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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