Canary Island Spurge
euphorbia stygiana
Also known as: ["Stygian Spurge","Canary Spurge"]
Overview
A large, evergreen shrub native to the Canary Islands, known for its architectural form and yellow-green flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia stygiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock garden, coastal garden, or container in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- 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: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to bright indirect light, 6–8 hours daily; adjust in summer to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in filtered light during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, rocky or sandy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during winter.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for Euphorbia stygiana.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun until roots form.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, pot, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cut end to dry before planting; use sterile tools; maintain humidity around cutting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; wear gloves to avoid sap irritation.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth; shape plant to maintain form; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape evenly; wear gloves.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even saturation without pooling; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer), reducing frequency to every 3–4 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; insulate roots with mulch.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration despite adequate water due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicEuphorbia stygiana is toxic to cats, with the milky sap and other parts causing irritation and inflammation upon ingestion or contact. The plant's toxic compounds can result in gastrointestinal distress and skin reactions in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten or touched
Dogs
ToxicThe milky sap and other parts of Euphorbia stygiana are toxic to dogs, causing irritation and inflammation upon ingestion or contact. The diterpene esters and latex can lead to gastrointestinal upset and skin reactions in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten or touched
Humans
ToxicEuphorbia stygiana contains diterpene esters and latex, which are toxic upon ingestion or contact with skin. These compounds can cause irritation, inflammation, and systemic effects due to their irritant and vesicant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten or touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphorbia stygiana toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Euphorbia stygiana?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, especially in winter.
Q: Does Euphorbia stygiana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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