PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun exposure for optimal growth; tolerates partial shade in hot Mediterranean climates
Watering
Water moderately, allowing the top 2 cm of soil to dry between waterings; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Thrives in 15–25°C; tolerates light frost but prefers warm, dry growing conditions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Linear to lanceolate, alternate, pale green, up to 5 cm long with smooth margins
- Flower: Small yellowish-green cyathia clustered at stem tips; lacks true petals
- Stem: Erect, branching, smooth, exudes milky white sap when damaged
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil slightly moist during active growing season
Fertilization
No supplemental fertilization required; tolerates nutrient-poor soil. Overfeeding may cause leggy growth and reduced drought tolerance
Eggshell powder topdress：Sprinkle finely ground, dried eggshells on soil surface; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent fungal growthPruning
- Remove spent flower heads to limit self-seeding if controlling spread
- Trim back dead foliage after flowering to tidy growing areas
- Pull up entire mature plants to reduce next year's volunteer growth in managed gardens
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; sap induces oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea on contact or ingestion
Humans: Milky sap causes skin redness, blistering, and eye irritation; mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: N/A
