Euphorbia ferox

pincushion euphorbia
Shrubby, low clumping Euphorbia great for pots and rockeries. Thick, woody, spines vary in aggressiveness by plant. Loves heat.
Euphorbia ferox
height 8–18in
width 1–2ft
tolerates Drought, Gophers, Heat, Pots, Rooftops, Wind
water
needs
Low – Moderate
water
info
This plant wants a wet to dry cycle. Protect from cold wet winters, when this plant can be moved indoors to a sunny window.
hardy
to
30F
exposure Full Sun
indoor
outdoor
Outdoor
drainage In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix
fertilizing All Purpose
origin S South Africa
california
native
No
sunset
zones
13, 23, 24

Sunset Zones Map

Outdoor Exposure Guide

OUTDOOR EXPOSURE GUIDE

Full Sun
Six or more hours of sun beams directly landing on the plant's leaves.

Part Shade
Three to five hours of sun beams directly landing on the plant's leaves.

Part Sun
One to two hours of sun beams directly landing on the plants leaves.

Full Shade
The plant is never fully lit by sun beams, but is in a bright spot or has dappled sunbeams playing over the leaves throughout the day.

Deep Shade
The plant never has dappled light on the leaves, and is in a place that feels dim, even on a nice sunny day.

SUNSET ZONES MAP

Growing Notes

This plant offsets from the base, creating a clump of many heads. Looks best in a hot intense sunny spot.
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). This sap also prevents predation of the plant.

Special Interest

It is fascinating that the spines of this plant are actually sterile peduncles, the stem that would usually hold a flower. Many euphorbia have relatively spiny peduncles, but Euphorbia ferox takes it to the extreme!

More Info

The photo of this plant with a black background was taken by Frank Vincentz.