Hairy Spurge
euphorbia hirsuta
Also known as: ["Hairy Euphorbia","Furry Spurge"]
Overview
A low-growing herbaceous plant with hairy stems and leaves, belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia hirsuta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock garden, xeriscaped area, or container with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- 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 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 every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes prolonged cold or heat extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate warmth year-round.
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 or division of offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots may form in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use warm, humid conditions; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; wear gloves to avoid sap irritation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or leggy growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; wear gloves; cut cleanly; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Use a fast-draining soil mix; gently tease out roots; place in a pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Euphorbias prefer being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
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, causes root rot, and may lead to leaf drop or dieback.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; avoid drafty areas; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, dehydration, and may trigger premature flowering or dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicEuphorbia hirsuta is toxic to cats, with the sap containing irritant compounds that can cause severe irritation to the mouth, digestive tract, and skin. Ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Dogs
ToxicThe milky sap of Euphorbia hirsuta is toxic to dogs, causing irritation to the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, and skin. Ingestion can result in significant discomfort and potential systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Humans
ToxicEuphorbia hirsuta contains diterpene esters and other irritant compounds that can cause significant irritation upon contact with skin or mucous membranes. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects due to the plant's latex.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphorbia hirsuta toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Euphorbia hirsuta?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, as it is drought tolerant.
Q: Does Euphorbia hirsuta require full sun?
A: It can tolerate partial shade but thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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