Star Cactus

euphorbia stellata

Also known as: ["Star Cactus","Star Spurge"]

Family: Euphorbiaceae Genus: Euphorbia Category: Succulents & Cacti

Overview

A succulent plant with star-shaped spines and a distinctive geometric form, native to arid regions.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Succulents & Cacti
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Indoor Plant Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Pet Owners (non Toxic Plants Only) Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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 cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove dead/damaged growth.
  • 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 direct sun but acclimate gradually to avoid scorching.

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

Warning Signs: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, or soft stems indicate overwatering or poor drainage.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; place near south-facing window for bright light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter

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

Soil

well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix

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

Use pots with drainage holes; avoid overwatering; top-dress with fresh soil annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm, stable conditions.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in warm conditions.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also be used but are slower.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Cut a healthy stem.
  2. Let callus for 1–2 days.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Keep moist but not wet.

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

Environment

Warm (70–80°F), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.

Medium

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

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–3 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife, rooting hormone, pot, well-draining soil mix, plastic bag (for humidity).

Quick Tips

Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity; use sterile tools to prevent rot.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

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

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and encourage new growth; prune after flowering or in early spring.

Tools

Sharp, clean pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.

Checklist

Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut at an angle; dispose of pruned material.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; 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; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; ensure good 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, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the base of the plant, avoiding leaves.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply every 7–14 days during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on weather and soil dryness.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve aeration and drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or sunburn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with stems/leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Euphorbia stellata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Euphorbia stellata can result from water stress, either due to overwatering causing root rot or underwatering leading to dehydration, both of which impair nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Euphorbia stellata are often caused by fungal or bacterial infections, which can compromise leaf function, reduce photosynthesis, and lead to leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Euphorbia stellata due to excessive moisture, leading to tissue decay, loss of structural integrity, and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from Euphorbia stellata, particularly from the milky sap, which can cause severe irritation to the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and skin. The plant's irritants can lead to significant discomfort and potential systemic issues if ingested.

⚠️ Symptoms:
excessive drooling vomiting difficulty swallowing diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
milky sap leaves stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion occurs, seek veterinary care promptly. Provide supportive care as advised by a professional.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of Euphorbia stellata by dogs can cause significant gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's irritant compounds. The milky sap is particularly harmful if舔 or ingested, leading to mucosal irritation and potential systemic effects.

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

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance.
Humans
Toxic

The milky sap of Euphorbia stellata contains diterpenoid phorbol esters and other irritants that can cause severe skin and eye irritation upon contact. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and systemic toxicity due to the sap's caustic properties.

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

if touched or eaten

Avoid contact with the sap. Wear gloves when handling. If sap contacts skin or eyes, rinse immediately with water. Seek medical attention if ingested.
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 stellata toxic to pets?

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

Q: How often should I water Euphorbia stellata?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.

Q: Does Euphorbia stellata require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight.

Quick Reference
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","indoor plant lovers","outdoor landscapers","pet owners (non-toxic plants only)","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

Medusa's Head
View
Candlenut, Kukui Nut
View
Low Mallow
View
Canary Island Spurge
View