Euphorbia cyathophora aka 🔥Fire On The Mountain

General Care for Euphorbia cyathophora aka Fire On The Mountain

Euphorbia cyathophora thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.

Soil

It prefers well-drained sandy soils but can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and loam. The soil pH can be acidic, neutral, or alkaline.

Water

This plant has typical water needs for a succulent, meaning it should be watered when the soil is dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Temperature

Suitable for USDA Zones 8A–11, Euphorbia cyathophora is not cold hardy and should be protected from frost. It can survive temperatures as low as 30°F (-1.1°C) but may die back in colder climates.

Maintenance

This plant is relatively high maintenance due to its potential to become weedy. It can self-seed aggressively, so it’s important to monitor and control its spread in the garden. The milky sap is toxic and can cause skin irritation, so handle with care.

Pests and Diseases

Generally resistant to pests, but the plant’s milky sap can irritate the digestive tracts of herbivores. It can attract bees, butterflies, and flies, making it a good choice for a pollinator-friendly garden​.

How to Propagate Euphorbia cyathophora aka Fire On The Mountain

Seeds

1. Collect seeds from the three-lobed capsules that form after flowering.
2. Sow the seeds directly in well-draining soil. Seeds can be challenging to start but will self-seed easily once established.
3. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs, typically in warm conditions.

Stem Cuttings

1. Cut a healthy stem segment using a clean, sharp knife or scissors.
2. Allow the cutting to dry for a day or two to form a callus over the cut surface.
3. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil.
4. Water sparingly, just enough to keep the soil slightly moist.
5. Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect sunlight until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks.

Propagation is most successful during the plant’s active growing season, typically in spring and summer.