Canary Island Spurge
euphorbia canariensis
Also known as: ["Candelabra Spurge","Hedgehog Euphorbia"]
Overview
A succulent shrub native to the Canary Islands, characterized by its spiny, columnar stems and drought tolerance.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia canariensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden or xeriscaped area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust in summer to avoid leaf burn by providing partial shade during peak hours.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching midday sun; place in a spot with unobstructed light but some afternoon shade if grown outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Use a sheer curtain to filter intense summer sun; rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid shaded spots.
Watering
every 10–14 days in summer, every 4–6 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C). Tolerates mild heat but prefers cooler nights in winter (50–60°F / 10–15°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess nutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets. Stem cuttings are more common for this species.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut a healthy stem.
- Let it callus for 1–2 weeks.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after a week.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), bright indirect light, and high humidity (60–70%) for initial rooting.
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 4–8 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), pot, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use sterile tools to prevent rot; maintain warmth and humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems cleanly just above a node or junction; wear gloves to avoid sap irritation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, remove dead or damaged stems, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut cleanly; dispose of pruned material safely.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring moisture reaches the lower roots. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry. Ensure water drains freely from the pot.
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, perlite, or pumice to standard potting soil to enhance drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, wilting, or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or root rot in cold conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or fungal infections due to reduced metabolic activity.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid watering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause sunburn, dehydration, and leaf drop, especially if combined with poor watering habits.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water more frequently but carefully.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use cactus-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer (half-strength) once in spring and once in summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicEuphorbia canariensis is toxic to cats, with the sap being particularly irritating to mucous membranes and the digestive system. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects due to the plant's toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe sap of Euphorbia canariensis is toxic to dogs, causing severe irritation to the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract. Ingestion can result in significant discomfort and potential systemic effects due to the plant's irritant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicThe milky sap of Euphorbia canariensis contains diterpene esters, which are 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:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphorbia canariensis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Can this plant be grown indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors with bright, direct sunlight and excellent drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 10–14 days in summer, |
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