Gerold's Spurge (Euphorbia geroldii)

Gerold's Spurge

Euphorbia geroldii

Its compact branching form holds year-round green, a tidy desert gem. Dwarf succulent shrub; common name: Gerold's Spurge.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial sun; tolerates bright indirect light indoors, avoid prolonged low-light conditions
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot; reduce frequency in winter dormancy
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Temperature Thrives in warm, arid conditions; protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, obovate, fleshy green leaves arranged in whorls along stems
  • Flower: Tiny yellowish-green cyathia (false flowers) clustered at stem tips
  • Stem: Green, succulent, densely branching to form a rounded, compact habit
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Care Guide

Watering

Water thoroughly when soil is fully dry; avoid standing water

Fertilization

Diluted succulent fertilizer once monthly. Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant is dormant to prevent root burn

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to add calcium without causing nutrient buildup
Pruning
  • Trim leggy stems in early spring to maintain a compact, rounded habit
  • Remove dead or yellowing leaves to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
  • Cut back spent flower clusters to encourage new branching and growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; milky sap causes oral pain, hypersalivation, vomiting, and diarrhea

Humans: Milky white sap causes skin redness, itching, and blistering on contact; oral irritation if ingested

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for rock gardens, container gardens, or indoor succulent displays