Euphorbia enopla

pincushion euphorbia
Energetic shrubby green succulent has fantastical ruby spines reminiscent of a sea urchin. Potted champion.
Euphorbia enopla
height 1–3ft
width 1–2ft
tolerates Drought, Deer , Gophers, Heat, Pots, Wind
water
needs		 Low – Moderate
water
info		 This plant wants a wet to dry cycle. Remember you’ll need to water more frequently in hot weather and if your plant is in an undersized pot.
hardy
to		 32F
exposure Part Shade – Full Sun
indoor
outdoor		 Outdoor
drainage In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix
fertilizing All Purpose
origin SW South Africa
california
native		 No
sunset
zones		 22–24, H2

Sunset Zones Map

Outdoor Exposure Guide

Growing Notes

They respond well to pruning. They will look scarred for a while, but then will push new growth wherever they are pruned, often giving you several new growth points. Take care when pruning, as euphorbias have toxic sap that can cause a skin rash or damage to the eyes (make sure to rinse repeatedly with water if sap gets anywhere near your eyes).
They like a warm sunny exposure but do surprisingly well in shady areas as long as they aren’t given extra water during winter.
As columnar euphorbias grow they will transition from colorful and smooth new growth to dull, brown and rough older growth. This is called corking, and it is totally natural. Think of this like an oak tree where the new shoots are shiny and green, but then eventually you get a trunk covered in rough dull bark.
Soft dark brown spots on Euphorbia are usually a sign of rot. Carve these spots out with a sterile knife immediately (carve all the way back to healthy-looking tissue). Rot usually results from overwatering, but it can also be caused by drastic under-watering. Occasionally this will start at the base of the plant, which means the roots have rotted. If you’d like to save the plant you’ll need to remove the top above the rotten base, let the top sit for two weeks in a shady spot, and then replant in very sharp-draining soil. Place the cutting in a warm spot to re-root, preferably not in harsh sun.

Special Interest

Fairly easy from cuttings. When weather warms cut off arms and let sit for two weeks in a warm bright spot. Use rooting hormone and plant in a sharp draining mix. Keep warm while rooting.

More Info

This euphorbia also makes a good houseplant and transitions easily to a warm sunny room.