Jungle Bush
euphorbia grandicornis
Also known as: ["Cowhorn Euphorbia","Two-horned Euphorbia"]
Overview
A succulent species of flowering plant in the spurge family Euphorbiaceae, native to southern Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia grandicornis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor rock garden
- 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 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 growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may stretch; adjust exposure gradually if moving from low to high light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to intense sunlight slowly over 1–2 weeks; protect from harsh midday sun in summer to prevent scorching; place indoors near south-facing window or outdoors in a spot with unfiltered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during hottest part of summer; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 10–14 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out fully between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use gritty soil mix; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils; ensure pots drain freely.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warmth; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; allow cut end to callus for 1–2 weeks before planting.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus.
- Plant in dry, well-draining medium.
- Water lightly after planting.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), bright indirect light, high humidity (e.g., propagation dome or plastic bag).
Medium
Well-draining cactus mix or perlite and sand mixture.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots may form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use gloves to avoid skin irritation from sap; keep medium barely moist, not wet; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a node or junction; wear gloves and protective clothing to avoid sap irritation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, shape, and remove damaged or overgrown stems; encourages bushier growth.
Tools
Sterile pruning shears or sharp knife, gloves, eye protection.
Checklist
Wear protective gear; sterilize tools; prune during active growth; dispose of cuttings carefully.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 cm wider diameter).
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim any damaged roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Use well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes; handle roots gently; avoid overwatering after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry; avoid waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growing season (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency to monthly or less in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to standard potting mix; ensure pots have adequate drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing) or necrosis (browning) of leaves; stunted growth; bud drop; soft, mushy stems (overwatering in cold) or dry, crispy leaves (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and increase susceptibility to root rot; prolonged cold can cause tissue damage or death.
Solution: Move plant to a warmer location; reduce watering; provide insulation (e.g., move away from drafty windows); use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf burn, or wilting; may lead to sunburn on stems if not acclimated.
Solution: Provide some shade during peak heat; increase humidity (e.g., misting or pebble tray); ensure adequate water without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Euphorbia grandicornis if they ingest any part of the plant. The sap contains compounds that can cause severe irritation and inflammation in the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Euphorbia grandicornis by dogs can cause significant gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's irritant sap. The diterpenoid esters can lead to inflammation and discomfort in the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
ToxicThe milky sap of Euphorbia grandicornis contains diterpenoid 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 plant's latex compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphorbia grandicornis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Euphorbia grandicornis?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Euphorbia grandicornis require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 10–14 days during acti |
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