Spurge
chamaesyce hypericifolia
Also known as: ["Hypericifolia spurge","Small-flowered spurge"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant with succulent stems and leaves, often found in disturbed areas.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Chamaesyce |
| Botanical Name: | Chamaesyce hypericifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in warm climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct sun but prefers filtered light, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in east-facing windows for ideal light; move outdoors in spring/summer with partial shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out fully between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions; sensitive to cold below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid drafty areas; use a thermometer to monitor microclimates; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to avoid root burn; stop feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; leaf cuttings can also be used but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or moist medium.
- Wait for roots to form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water; perlite or sand can improve drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks in water; soil propagation may take slightly longer.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; change water every few days if using water propagation; keep cuttings out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove entire stems if overly leggy.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems to improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure thorough saturation without pooling; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once every 3–4 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in cold; leaf drop or stunted growth in excessive heat; brown leaf edges in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of root rot due to reduced evaporation.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if indoors; reduce watering to prevent cold-induced rot.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf scorch or yellowing; reduced flowering or bud drop.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; provide shade during peak heat; water early in the day.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Chamaesyce hypericifolia. The plant's sap can also cause skin irritation upon contact, similar to effects seen in humans and dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Chamaesyce hypericifolia can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds. The milky sap may also cause skin irritation if contact occurs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicChamaesyce hypericifolia contains phorbol esters and other irritant compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's milky sap is particularly irritating to mucous membranes and can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chamaesyce hypericifolia toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does this plant grow?
A: It is a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant that thrives in disturbed areas.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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