Honey Spurge
euphorbia mellifera
Also known as: ["Honey Spurge","Meadow Spurge"]
Overview
A perennial shrub native to the Canary Islands, known for its honey-scented flowers and milky sap.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia mellifera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens or sheltered outdoor spaces
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°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 mix of cactus soil, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to bright indirect light; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, especially in spring/summer; partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak afternoon heat; indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun in winter if grown indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; reduce watering in winter dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth; avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Protect from frost; avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures to prevent shock.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; take 4–6 inch cuttings from healthy stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Let callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pot, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cut end to callus before planting; use a humidity dome; avoid direct sun during rooting.
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 overgrown stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; wear gloves; remove dead or crossing stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; improves growth and drainage.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the pot; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer); reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall/winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet; leaves may turn yellow or drop.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; use a space heater if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or curl; growth may slow; soil may dry too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; feed every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; cease fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicEuphorbia mellifera is toxic to cats, particularly due to its latex sap, which can cause severe irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and other systemic effects upon ingestion. Cats are particularly sensitive to plant toxins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
ToxicThe latex sap of Euphorbia mellifera is toxic to dogs, causing severe gastrointestinal irritation and potential systemic toxicity if ingested. The plant's irritant compounds can lead to significant discomfort and health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
ToxicEuphorbia mellifera contains diterpene esters in its sap, which are known to cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects due to the presence of latex compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphorbia mellifera toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Euphorbia mellifera attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How should I care for Euphorbia mellifera?
A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil, full sun, and occasional watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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