Susanne's Spurge
euphorbia susannae
Also known as: ["Dwarf Euphorbia","Susanne's Euphorbia"]
Overview
A slow-growing, succulent species native to South Africa, characterized by its unique, compact, and spiny growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia susannae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- 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: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once a year or when stems become leggy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on shaping and removing unhealthy parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 10–14 days during growing season, reduce to monthly in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes prolonged cold or heat extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; maintain moderate warmth year-round.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced cactus fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent salt buildup; apply to moist soil to avoid root burn; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets.Offsets are the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset or stem.
- Let cut end callous for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
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 can take several months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pot, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use a humidity dome for faster rooting; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a node or junction; avoid cutting into old growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning to remove dead or damaged stems and encourage compact growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Euphorbia susannae prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring moisture reaches the lower roots. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess. 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 warmth and light.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting mix to enhance drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing) in cold; wilting or shriveled stems in heat; bud drop or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet; can lead to leaf drop or stem damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; use a space heater if necessary; protect from drafts.
Hot Stress
Stems may shrivel or become brittle; leaves may scorch; growth may stall in excessive heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate ventilation; water carefully to avoid overheating roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter; water before fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer (half strength) once monthly during growing season (spring–summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Euphorbia susannae, particularly from the latex, which can cause severe irritation and gastrointestinal distress. The plant's toxic compounds can lead to systemic effects if ingested in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Euphorbia susannae by dogs can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and irritation due to the toxic latex. The plant's compounds can lead to mild to moderate toxicity, depending on the amount consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
ToxicEuphorbia susannae contains a highly irritating latex that can cause severe skin and eye irritation upon contact. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and systemic toxicity due to the presence of diterpene esters.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Euphorbia susannae?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent rot.
Q: Is Euphorbia susannae toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Euphorbia susannae flower?
A: It rarely flowers in cultivation, but when it does, it produces small, inconspicuous yellowish-green flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 10–14 days during grow |
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