Euphorbia lactea - Mottled spurge

Euphorbia lactea, the mottled spurge, is an architectural indoor succulent plant prized for its ease of care. Native to tropical Asia, it is characterised by upright, angular stems. This undemanding spurge thrives in a bright position with some direct sunlight and moderate watering, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings. Like all euphorbias, its milky sap is toxic and irritating: it is recommended to handle the plant with care. Ideal for decorating a modern interior!

Euphorbia lactea, also known as candelabra spurge and dragon bones, is a succulent plant belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. Native to India and Sri Lanka, it grows naturally in dry, rocky environments where it has developed a high resistance to drought. This plant has an upright habit, forming green, angular stems marked by lighter bands, earning it the nickname "mottled spurge". Its stems, which can reach several metres in the wild, are quadrangular and edged with small, toothed ridges where tiny thorns develop. Its flowering is rare indoors and appears as small, discreet inflorescences in the axils of the stems. Adapted to arid climates, it limits water loss through the absence of true leaves and a thick protective cuticle on its stems. Indoors, it slowly reaches up to 1 m in height. Its width remains moderate, around 30 to 40 cm, depending on the branching of the stems. In good conditions, it can continue to grow for several years, although it does not develop the imposing dimensions it reaches in its natural habitat.

This spurge thrives in a very bright position, ideally near a well-lit south-facing window, with a few hours of direct sunlight per day. It prefers temperatures between 18 and 25 °C and cannot tolerate cold below 10 °C. A well-draining substrate is essential: a mix of cactus compost and coarse sand helps prevent excess moisture, to which it is very sensitive. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In winter, during its dormant period, watering should be even more infrequent, but in summer, do not let the substrate dry out entirely. Although rarely prone to diseases, it can be vulnerable to mealybugs if the air is too dry.

Sculptural Euphorbia lactea is perfectly suited to a modern or minimalist interior, or for a cactus collector, or simply in a sunlit room. Placed in a terracotta pot, it benefits from optimal drainage. In a contemporary style, a ceramic or concrete pot will highlight its architectural appeal. It pairs easily with other upright succulents such as Euphorbia trigona and Cereus peruvianus, or with trailing plants like Senecio rowleyanus to play with contrasting shapes.