How to Plant Euphorbia Cuttings
Euphorbia (Euphorbia milii), sometimes referred to as crown of thorns, is a flowering succulent that is native to Madagascar. This plant has firm, smooth leaves, colorful blooms, and branches and stems that are covered in sharp thorns. Euphorbia grows slowly but is not difficult to care for once established. Like most succulents, this flower is very drought tolerant but will not survive temperatures that dip below freezing.
Put on gardening gloves thick enough to prevent the euphorbia's thorns from sticking you.
Remove a 3-inch piece from the tip of one of the euphorbia's stems using a sharp knife. Place the wounded end of the stem into a container of warm water until the milky sap stops flowing. Take the cutting from the water and allow it to dry for three or four days.
- Euphorbia (Euphorbia milii), sometimes referred to as crown of thorns, is a flowering succulent that is native to Madagascar.
- Like most succulents, this flower is very drought tolerant but will not survive temperatures that dip below freezing.
Dip the wounded end of the cutting into a rooting hormone which contains fungicide. Make sure the tip is well-coated and be careful not to inhale any of the rooting hormone.
Place a mixture of equal parts peat moss, coarse sand and perlite into a small potting container. It is vital that the container have sufficient drainage. If you are uncertain, place a handful of small pebbles into the bottom of the pot before adding the potting mixture.
Plant the bottom 1/3 of the stem in the potting mixture. Tamp the soil down firmly around it to hold the cutting in place and remove any air pockets.
- Dip the wounded end of the cutting into a rooting hormone which contains fungicide.
- Plant the bottom 1/3 of the stem in the potting mixture.
Add just enough water to dampen the soil. Check the cutting daily and continue to add enough water to keep the soil damp.
Place the newly planted cutting in a bright, warm location in your home. The root system should develop within 20 to 30 days.
Tip
Avoid taking euphorbia cuttings in fall or winter, as they will not have time to develop a sufficient root system.
Do not place euphorbia cuttings in direct sunlight.
Warning
The milky-looking sap that oozes from euphorbia is a skin irritant.
Euphorbia is poisonous, so take the proper precautions if you share your home with animals or small children.
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References
Tips
- Avoid taking euphorbia cuttings in fall or winter, as they will not have time to develop a sufficient root system.
- Do not place euphorbia cuttings in direct sunlight.
Warnings
- The milky-looking sap that oozes from euphorbia is a skin irritant.
- Euphorbia is poisonous, so take the proper precautions if you share your home with animals or small children.
