Euphorbia horrida

General Care for Euphorbia horrida

Euphorbia horrida, commonly known as the barrel cactus Euphorbia, is a striking succulent suitable for container gardens and rock gardens. Here are essential care guidelines to help you cultivate and propagate this plant safely:

Watering

Euphorbia horrida requires typical succulent watering practices. Use the soak and dry method, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. To prevent root rot, ensure the soil is completely dry before watering again.

Where to Plant

This succulent is not cold-hardy and should be grown in containers in regions where temperatures drop below 30°F (-1.1°C) in winter. It thrives in full to partial sun, making it suitable for areas that receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Due to its toxicity to humans and pets, plant Euphorbia horrida in an area with minimal foot traffic.

How to Propagate Euphorbia horrida

Euphorbia horrida is a rapid grower that propagates easily through offsets and occasionally from seeds:

Offsets

• Carefully remove offsets that sprout around the base of the plant. Use caution due to the plant’s toxic sap.
• Plant the offsets in well-draining soil after allowing the cut ends to callous over for a few days.

Cuttings

• To propagate from stem cuttings, use nitrile gloves and silicone tongs for safety, as the sap can irritate skin.
• Gently pull or cut a cylindrical stem from the main cluster.
• Allow the cut end to callous for several days before planting it in well-draining soil.

Seeds

• Mature Euphorbia horrida plants produce seeds in their fruits.
• Collect seeds and sow them in well-draining soil.
• In warmer regions (above USDA zone 9a), sow seeds outdoors.
• In cooler areas, start seeds indoors under grow lights or on a seed mat.