Euphorbia RESINIFERA

Euphorbia RESINIFERA - Resin Spurge, Euphorbia resinifera.

Euphorbia is a genus of succulent and non-succulent plants in the Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), comprising about 2,000 species growing in tropical and subtropical regions of all continents, and characterized by high adaptation to diverse climatic conditions and growth forms - from herbs to trees and shrubs.

Members of the genus have thickened, fleshy, often ribbed stems, sometimes with spines that store water, which makes them resistant to drought and irregular watering. Plants vary greatly in appearance: herbs, shrubs, trees, cactus-like forms, with the presence of milky sap, which often contains toxic substances, serving as a common feature. Leaves can be large or reduced, simple or lobed, often falling off during the dry season.

Small and inconspicuous flowers are collected in special inflorescences - cyathia, surrounded by bracts often mistaken for petals. The fruits are three-locular capsules containing rounded or ovate seeds.

Many species in nature reach large sizes, but most euphorbias are well adapted for indoor cultivation and are valued for their ornamental appeal, unique forms, and resilience.

Resin spurge is a low-growing succulent shrub up to 1 m (3.3 ft) high, but usually around 50 cm (20 in). It is distinguished by dense branching. The shoots are ribbed and bluish-green. The ribs are serrated, bearing small paired spines 5 mm (0.2 in) long, located at a distance of up to 1 cm (0.4 in) from each other. Leaves drop quickly; they are small and brownish in color. Flowers form on 3-headed peduncles. Native to the mountainous regions of Morocco.

Seeds are sown on the surface or with light embedding, no more than 2 mm (0.08 in), into a loose sand-peat substrate. Sowings are moistened with a spray bottle, placed in a propagator 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 necessary to avoid waterlogging and complete drying out of sowings. To avoid prolonged condensation retention, the container is ventilated 1-2 times a day for 10-15 minutes.

Seedlings appear within 12-25 days. The maximum germination period can exceed 40 days. As seedlings appear, the cover is gradually removed. Pricking out is carried out 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 diffuse light. With sufficient light, the color of the stems becomes richer and may take on a yellowish tint. In partial shade, it develops slowly and loses its compact form, the stems stretch out and lose ornamental appeal.

In summer, the optimal keeping temperature is 21-28 °C (70-82 °F), in winter - 15-18 °C (59-64 °F), not below 12 °C (54 °F). In cold weather, the plant requires a dormancy period. Watering is carried out moderately as the soil dries out. In winter, watering is reduced to a minimum, only to avoid complete drying out of the substrate. Excess moisture causes rotting.

It grows in a light, breathable soil for succulents consisting of equal parts turf 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 for the root system. Fertilizing is applied in spring and summer 1-2 times with fertilizer for succulents. Excess nitrogen is contraindicated - it leads to loss of ornamental qualities and stretching of shoots. Organic fertilizers improve coloration and tissue density.

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