The succulent members of the Euphorbia genus of plants are renowned for their graceful and architectural appearance.
Due to the fact that many of the common kinds are stem succulents, these plants are sometimes mistaken for cacti. However, they actually belong to a completely separate genus that has nearly 2000 species!
This article will discuss what makes Euphorbia so distinctive and remarkable, why it is not a cactus, how to care for Euphorbia, which species are some of the more well-known ones, and other topics.
There are a few key differences which I will break down:
Cacti are only indigenous to the New World, with the exception of the Rhipsalis baccifera. There are no cacti in Europe, Russia, Australia, nor in Africa or Asia (except for that one species of Rhipsalis). On the other hand, euphorbia are native to many regions of the world, although those from Africa and India are the most cactus-like.
Both cacti and euphorbias have prickles, however the prickles on each species are unique. All cacti have areoles, which are structures that serve as the source of the spines, which are modified leaves. The most common thorns on euphorbias are modified stems that are typically seen in pairs. Areoles do not exist in euphorbias.
Cacti and succulent Euphorbias both retain water for dry spells, but latex, a hazardous sap, is present in all Euphorbias. It is most likely a Euphorbia if you cut open a succulent and it weeps this white fluid.
Cacti and Euphorbias both produce flowers, however the blossoms are typically extremely dissimilar. Euphorbia blooms are often subtle, whereas cactus blossoms are frequently spectacularly colorful and striking. Flowers from euphorbia are frequently a light greenish-yellow tint. However, some Euphorbias, such as Euphorbia milii, have vivid flowers (Crown of Thorns).
So there you have it—in a nutshell, the similarities and differences between cacti and euphorbias. Next time you see a spiny succulent, you’ll be able to identify it as a cactus, a Euphorbia, or something else by taking a closer look.
The plant genus Euphorbia (Euphorbia spp.) contains more than 2,000 species. Around 1,200 of them are succulents, some of which have odd shapes and broad, mushy leaves, while others remarkably resemble cactus and have spines. The genus’ plants are frequently referred to as spurge or euphorbia by growers.
With repeated additions and deletions of species and subgenera, Euphorbia is a somewhat ambiguous genus. The genus contains species that are annual, perennial, and biennial. There are species of herbaceous plants, woody shrubs, as well as deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs. The presence of a milky white sap in the plants is the defining trait among the species.
Most of the euphorbia species utilized for landscaping or as indoor plants are succulents with interesting forms and foliage, but a handful are also prized for their blooms. The poinsettia is one of the most well-known euphorbia species that is not a succulent.
The majority of euphorbias flower in the spring or summer and hibernate over the winter. Most species should be planted in the spring, when the risk of frost has gone, however houseplants can usually be started at any time. The growth rates of the species range from slowly to rather swiftly.
Euphorbia is poisonous to dogs, cats, and humans in all forms. Each plant species has a different amount of toxicity.
Euphorbia Trigona: Succulent or cactus?
A succulent that requires little maintenance, Euphorbia trigona is a native of West Africa. With its erect stems, ridges of transient leaves, and thorns, it adds an interesting architectural element to interior designs.
How are euphorbia and cactus similar?
Euphorbia and cactus share a lot of characteristics, which is the outcome of convergent evolution. Euphorbias and cacti are two examples of stem succulents, a class of plants that store water in the stem tissues of their plants. These plants are able to endure in extremely arid environments due to this adaptability and their lack of leaves.
Euphorbia Cactus Conundrum
Why so many people mistake euphorbias for cactus is evident from the nasty, sharp thorns of the Euphorbia milii plant above. Despite having different botanical species, euphorbia and cacti share many characteristics that developed over thousands of years as a result of adaptations to comparable harsh environments. Convergent evolution is the name given to this. Cactus and the succulent euphorbia both store water in their stems to help the plants survive dry spells. Both evolved long, pointed spikes to shield their water reserves from grazing animals and to shield the plant from the intense heat. The spikes block up the airflow around the plant, producing a tiny amount of shade and preventing moisture loss to the wind.
The Differences Between Euphorbia and Cactus
Even though all succulents are cactus, not all cactus are succulents. Succulent euphorbias predominate. Many of them resemble cactus, and are commonly known as “euphorbia cactus, but no euphorbia is truly a cactus in biology. Not yet clear? Areoles are a distinctive feature of all cacti. This branch, which resembles a little, round bump, has undergone significant modification. It supports blooms, spines, and shoots. Euphorbia lacks areoles, yet even spineless cactus do. Many euphorbia cacti do, however, have thorns that sprout from rounded bumps. These lumps are not regarded as areoles because they don’t develop blooms or shoots.
The spines on cactus spikes are modified leaves. They frequently resemble needles and are fairly narrow, appearing to have been forced through the cactus’ epidermis from the other direction. Areoles inevitably develop into cactus spines. Euphorbia has thorns, which are adapted stems or branches, on its spikes. They usually have a considerably wider base and appear to have grown from the plant’s skin after being removed. Euphorbia thorns can sometimes be seen on bumps, but many do not. I must admit that I struggle to distinguish between euphorbia bumps and cactus areoles.
Next, let’s discuss euphorbia and cactus in more detail. They can easily be differentiated while in bloom. Cactus flowers are intricate, frequently big, and quite spectacular. Euphorbia has very small, straightforward flowers with either solely female or only male elements. Most often, the colored “Euphorbia blooms have bracts, or modified leaves, rather than genuine petals. See below for more information on euphorbia blooms. Their sap is the last difference between the two groups. Euphorbia sap is typically milky white and highly toxic, but cactus sap is typically quite clear. There will be more information about this later.
Any euphorbia type will leak copiously of milky white latex sap when severed. The white sap is referred to by many common names for euphorbia species, including African milk tree and milk bush. Many people may find this sap to be extremely irritating, leading to severe skin rashes. Even for people who are not sensitive to it on their skin, a slight brush with your eyes, nose, or mouth will be excruciatingly unpleasant. Use this sap with extreme caution. Even if you are really sensitive to it, it could take your skin up to an hour to respond. Additionally, you run the risk of getting sap in your eyes if you get sap on your shirt and later yank it off over your head. Avoid running that risk!
Euphorbia sap is poisonous. It was created as a defense against animals who were eager to feed on the moisture that the plant’s stems contained. Additionally, the sap has antibacterial and antifungal qualities that help the plant quickly recover from any wounds. There is no need to wait a few days for the cut to heal before taking euphorbia cuttings. The cutting is kept healthy by the sap as it starts to root.
Euphorbia is a plant that needs to be treated with respect due to its dangerous thorns and poisonous fluids. When pruning this plant, use caution and keep it out of the reach of little children or pets who enjoy eating plants. But you shouldn’t be afraid of this plant. Many other garden plants are just as hazardous as euphorbia, if not more so. Exercise prudence and safety measures. You may also be aware of how highly resistant to deer, rabbits, squirrels, and gophers all euphorbia kinds are due to their thorns and sap.
Euphorbias are All About Texture!
The gorgeous texture of succulent euphorbias is one of their main draws! Euphorbia tirucalli ‘Sticks on Fire’, which resembles a sea coral in this location, gives the garden gorgeous bright coloration and an airy, playful texture. Euphorbia types add drama and excitement to your garden or mixed arrangements with their distinctive features. Mixed rosettes and other smooth succulents gain an edgy feel from the thorns of the euphorbia cactus.
Euphorbia Flowers
Many of the brilliant and persistent blooms of euphorbia cultivars that we see are not actually flowers. The small, very minimalized euphorbia flowers are surrounded by these bright bracts or modified leaves. The only pieces needed for sexual reproduction are found in either the male or female versions of each flower. There are no genuine petals, sepals, or nectar on the blooms to draw pollinators. The pistil is present only in female flowers; male flowers have a stamen. Euphorbia do create nectar to attract bees, but it does it outside of the actual blooms.
An extended flush of the vibrant bracts that most people seek for in blooming plants results from these odd bloom structures. In actuality, the Euphorbia milli, often known as the Crown of Thorns plant, blooms almost all year long!
For succulents, getting the appropriate amount of sunlight is always crucial, although euphorbia are less likely to expand in less than perfect light. Euphorbia cultivars should be planted in the morning sun, with shade provided at the height of the day to prevent sunburn. Once you see any signs of stress, gradually increase the amount of sun exposure until the location is satisfactory to both you and the plant.
How are euphorbias cared for?
With a bigger selection available by mail order from specialized plant nurseries, euphorbias are commonly available in garden centers, nurseries, and online retailers.
In the spring or as larger plants in bloom in the summer and early fall, they are primarily sold as plants. The majority are in 1- or 2-liter pots, however smaller plants can occasionally be seen in 9-cm (31/2-in) pots.
Where to plant
For information on growing requirements and actual size to determine spacing, check the plant label as this varies widely depending on what you select to plant. The RHS Find a Plant website also has euphorbia pictures and descriptions.
When to plant
In the majority of the UK, spring is the ideal time to plant since the moist soil and warmer temperatures promote rapid plant establishment. This is particularly true of the blue and silvery leafed varieties, which struggle to survive the winter on damp soils and are therefore best avoided throughout the fall and winter months.
How to plant
Euphorbias can be planted like any other boundary perennial. This is a straightforward process that often involves digging a hole that is larger than the new plant’s root ball, planting it there, and then covering the hole with soil that has been amended with organic matter, like well-rotted garden compost or manure. The organic stuff is not necessary for plants that prefer arid climates, such E. myrsinites. All need to be well watered in and kept moist until they take root.
While the majority of euphorbia prefer to grow in the ground, some, like E. myrsinites, can thrive in containers. This is mostly because they want soil that is freely draining and it is relatively simple to mix up potting compost that precisely meets their needs. Add one part of grit to three parts of John Innes No. 3 compost.
How should a Euphorbia cactus be cared for?
Spurge typically needs full sun and well-drained soil. No one in the family is picky about the soil’s quality, however some can accept shadier surroundings. They may even survive in extremely poor soils and resist dry spells.
The upkeep of euphorbia plants is easy. Give them some light, a little moisture, and keep an eye out for pesky insects like whiteflies. To avoid powdery mildew, provide water underneath the plant’s leaves.
Spurge won’t require much fertilizing. Prior to feeding your plants with a water-soluble plant food, wait until the bottom leaves become yellow.
When the plant becomes out of control, prune. These plants are virtually unkillable and an excellent option for beginning gardeners. Growing Euphorbia to give to a friend is another excellent hobby for a novice.
How is a Euphorbia cactus grown?
Bright Indirect Light from Some Full Sun
The ideal lighting is direct sunlight or good bright light. Will accept early and late-afternoon full sun. It might tolerate some midday sun as well, but you’ll need to initially acclimate the plant.
moderate irrigation
When the top inch of the growing medium dries out, water deeply. Before watering again, let the environment dry out.
temperatures on average
Although this plant can tolerate both mild and hot conditions, the ideal range for growth is between 17C (63F) to 24C. (75F)
Typical Feeding
Try to feed between early spring and late summer once every few months. In winter, none is necessary.
- Avoid
- Rot can result from too much water.
It is necessary to avoid soggy soil. Make careful to throw the extra water away if, after watering it, there is still water in the pot or container after 30 minutes.
What appears to be a cactus but isn’t one?
Cacti come in a variety of species. However, there are other plants that resemble cactus but are not actually cacti. This article will provide you with a list of plants that resemble cacti but are actually different species. This will assist you in choosing cacti and will provide general knowledge.
How are cacti different from other plants?
One thing to keep in mind is that not all succulents are cacti, but all cacti are succulents. Although many succulents resemble cacti, they are not. Numerous succulents also resemble cacti thanks to their spines.
Cacti vary from other plants in the following ways:
- Areoles are only found in cactus. Flowers and fruits sprout from these bumpy patches and spikes. A plant is not a cactus even if it has spines but no areoles.
- Spines are separate organs that are present in cacti. A cactus spine should break if you tug on it without pulling the skin (skin). Other plants have epidermis-born spines that, if pulled, will rip the skin.
- Cactus flowers are distinctive and only bloom for a week at most.
Plants that look like cacti, but aren’t:
- Aloe
- Yucca
- Haworthia
- Stapelia
- Pachypodium
- Agave
- Euphorbia
- Fouquieria splendens, often known as ocotillo
- Echeveria
- Gasteria
- Aizoaceae, or ice plants
- Huernia
- Lithops
Aloe
A succulent plant known as aloe resembles a cactus. This plant offers a number of health advantages, which makes it quite popular in medicine. Aloe comes in more than 450 different species.
Additionally, aloe has spikes on its stalks and blooms throughout the summer. It is a succulent once more, not a cactus. The most popular species is aloe vera.
Yucca
Yucca plants can be either shrubs or trees. These plants grow to be quite huge and have numerous leaves with various points. They generally thrive in cacti-like environments, and their pointed leaves give them the appearance of cacti. Similar to cactus, it is drought-resistant, requires little watering, and thrives in well-draining soil.
Haworthia
The Haworthia is a stunning succulent with thick, upward-growing leaves that frequently have little spikes on them. They are Southern African natives. They grow in rosettes of leaves.
Numerous Haworthia species have pointed leaf tips and sides as well as modest growth rates and extended lifespans. Some plants have leaves with a rough feel. The majority of Haworthia plants are tiny and look like aloe plants.
Stapelia
Beautiful succulent plants called stapelia are native to Africa. This plant also has blooms, and the flowers are typically an odd reddish-brown hue, shaped like a star, highly hairy, and odorous. The plant itself has thin, blunt spines on its leaves that resemble cacti. Although it is not a cactus, this plant is highly unusual.
Pachypodium
Succulent plants called Pachypodium grow as trees or bushes. They are incredibly unusual plants with strong trunks that can store water to withstand droughts. The top of Pachypodium contains leaves, and the trunk is frequently coated with spines.
The plant’s top has leaves and looks like a palm tree. The spines on this plant don’t regenerate and it grows very slowly. Even pachypodium produces huge white flowers 4-6 years after reaching its ideal size.
Agave
A plant in the genus of monocots known as agave, often known as the century plant, resembles cacti in certain ways. Tequila, sugar, and various medications are all made from specific agave species.
Large, thick leaves on these Agave plants grow vertically and frequently have a pointed tip. These plants are primarily found in South America in hot, arid regions where cacti are also found. They have an aloe-like appearance.
A group of plants known as euphorbia, often known as spurge, resemble cactus. There are numerous varieties of this plant, and the majority of them blossom and have spines. They don’t grow from areoles, but their spines resemble cacti’s quite closely.
In contrast to cactus, which typically feature big flowers, their blossoms are frequently modest. Furthermore, cacti don’t have latex in their stems, whereas euphorbia plants emit a white fluid that does. The euphorbia probably resembles cactus the most.
Ocotillo, or Fouquieria splendens
Although ocotillo resembles a cactus, it is not a true cactus. They go by several other names, including desert coral and Jacob’s cactus. Large plants called ocotillo have cactus-like spines on their leaves.
These plants can be found growing close to cactus in the Southwest of the United States and Mexico. The ocotillo plant resembles a stick because of its strong base and upward-growing stems with leaves that may be lacking. They bloom as well.
Echeveria
Despite not having a particularly cactus-like appearance, some people refer plants Echeveria as cacti. These are rosettes-forming stonecrop plants. They also blossom and flourish in rather arid circumstances.
They are frequently referred to as hens and chicks. This genus has a large number of plants, many of which grow in rosettes. Other plants, like those in the Sempervivum genus, also resemble hens and chicks.
Gasteria
People frequently mistake the succulent Gasteria for a cactus. This is so because Gasteria have large leaves with little spikes on them and a thick base. Most commonly found in South Africa, Gasteria can blossom and produce lovely, curled flowers.
Ice Plants, or Aizoaceae
A huge plant genus with more than 1600 species including ice plants. Some of them resemble Lithops, or stone plants, and others closely resemble the cactus Rhipsalis. They flourish in New Zealand and South Africa.
Huernia
Succulent plants belonging to the genus Huernia are found in Africa. These plants have tall stems with spikes on them and are very similar to Stapelia. They also have bell- or star-shaped blooms. Flowers are typically vibrant and have a variety of colors and textures.
Similar to Stapelia blooms, they frequently have a disagreeable odor. The plants resemble cactus a lot because of their spines. Particularly Huernia pillansii resembles a cactus in appearance.
Lithops, or Aizoaceae
Lithops are little stone plants that belong to the same family as ice plants. They are particularly unusual plants since they are tiny, rounded, and blossom. Living stones known as lithops are from southern Africa. You may learn more about Lithops care by reading our article, which is available here.