Euphorbia STELLATA

Euphorbia STELLATA - Star euphorbia, Star spurge, Euphorbia stellata.

'Living Stones' seed series.

Euphorbia is one of the largest genera in the plant kingdom, belonging to the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). The genus numbers about 2,000 species distributed throughout the world. They occur in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions, growing in a wide variety of biotopes: from arid deserts to humid forests and mountain slopes.

Among euphorbias are annual and perennial herbs, shrubs, subshrubs, and even trees. Many species are succulents with fleshy stems and reduced leaves. The primary distinguishing feature of all representatives of the genus is the presence of acrid white milky sap containing toxic substances capable of causing skin burns and mucosal irritation.

Small and inconspicuous flowers are gathered into distinctive inflorescences - cyathia, surrounded by bracts often mistaken for petals. The fruits are three-locular capsules containing rounded or ovoid seeds.

Many species reach large sizes in nature, yet most euphorbias are well adapted for indoor cultivation and prized for their ornamental appeal, original forms, and endurance.

Star euphorbia is a magnificent plant for expanding the collection of a succulent and caudiciform enthusiast! Its homeland is the Cape Province of South Africa. In its native habitat, its flat leaves lie directly on the soil surface, while the caudex is completely hidden underground. In cultivation, however, the caudex is usually exposed, with only its base and turnip-like roots in the soil. This arrangement protects the sensitive "turnip" from excess moisture. Moreover, the elevated caudex is handsomely framed by arched branches adorned with a V-shaped pattern.

Seeds are sown superficially or with slight depth, no more than 2 mm (0.08 in), into a loose sandy-peat substrate. Sowings are moistened from a spray bottle, placed in a greenhouse or covered with film, and kept at a temperature of 21-25 °C (70-77 °F) in the light, but not under direct rays. It is essential to avoid overwatering and complete desiccation of sowings. To avoid prolonged condensation retention, the container is ventilated 1-2 times a day for 10-15 minutes.

Sprouts appear within 12-25 days. The maximum germination period can exceed 40 days. As sprouts appear, the cover is gradually removed. Pricking out is performed after the appearance of 2-3 true leaves, and plants are potted into individual containers.

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It prefers bright lighting and sunny windowsills, but can also adapt to diffused light. With sufficient lighting, stem coloration becomes richer and can take on a yellowish tint. In partial shade, it develops slowly and loses its compact form, with stems elongating and losing ornamental appeal.

In summer, the optimal maintenance temperature is 21-28 °C (70-82 °F), in winter - 15-18 °C (59-64 °F), not below 12 °C (54 °F). During cold periods, the plant requires a dormant interval. Watering is carried out moderately as the soil dries out. In winter, watering is reduced to a minimum, solely to avoid complete desiccation of the substrate. Excess moisture causes rot.

It grows in a light, airy soil for succulents consisting of equal parts sod soil, leaf mold, coarse sand, and charcoal. A drainage layer of expanded clay or gravel is mandatory. Repotting is carried out in spring once every 3-4 years, with care taken toward the root system. Feeding is applied in spring and summer 1-2 times with succulent fertilizers. Excess nitrogen is contraindicated - it leads to loss of ornamental quality and elongation of shoots. Organic fertilizers improve tissue coloration and density.

Pruning is carried out sanitarily to remove damaged areas. Propagation is possible by seeds and cuttings that root after drying. Seeds yield good sprouts when germination conditions are maintained; when working with cuttings, skin protection from milky sap is necessary.