Guenther's Spurge (Euphorbia guentheri)

Guenther's Spurge

Euphorbia guentheri

Milky sap guards its quiet beauty, a compact succulent shrub. Ornamental succulent; common name: Guenther's Spurge.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerate bright indirect indoor light; avoid prolonged midday summer sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency during dormant winter months
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent tissue damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Thick, fleshy obovate leaves in tight rosettes; blue-green to gray-green foliage
  • Flower: Tiny yellow cyathia (false flowers) clustered at stem tips; lack true petals
  • Stem: Succulent branching stems that exude milky latex sap when damaged
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Care Guide

Watering

Water thoroughly when top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Diluted succulent feed once every 2 months. Use low-nitrogen, phosphorus-rich diluted feed to support flowering and succulent growth

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush fully dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve drainage; avoid direct contact with stems
Pruning
  • Remove dead, yellowing leaves and spent flower clusters to maintain plant tidiness
  • Trim overgrown stems in early spring to encourage compact, bushy growth
  • Cut back damaged or rotting stems to healthy tissue to prevent spread of decay
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; sap irritates mouth, skin, and eyes; ingestion leads to vomiting and diarrhea

Humans: Milky sap causes skin and eye irritation; ingestion may trigger mild gastrointestinal upset

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for rock gardens, container planters, and xeriscape landscapes