Euphorbia polyacantha

Euphorbia polyacantha, commonly known as the Fish Bone Spurge, is a striking sculptural succulent with upright, angular green stems lined with pairs of sharp spines. Its strongly architectural form makes it a brilliant choice for a bright room, sunny windowsill or collection of unusual cacti and succulents.

Supplied in a 17cm diameter nursery pot at approximately 35cm+ tall, this is already a substantial plant with plenty of presence. As it matures, it develops an increasingly branched, candelabra-like shape.

Light & Position

Euphorbia polyacantha loves bright light and is happiest in one of the sunniest positions in the home. A south- or west-facing window can work particularly well.

Some direct sunshine is beneficial, although plants that have previously been grown under lower light should be introduced gradually to intense summer sun to avoid scorching.

Watering

Allow the compost to dry thoroughly between waterings, then water well and allow all excess water to drain away. Never leave the nursery pot standing in water.

Water more sparingly during autumn and winter when growth slows. In cooler winter conditions, the plant may need very little water at all. Overwatering and poor drainage are much more likely to cause problems than allowing the plant to become slightly dry.

Humidity & Temperature

Euphorbia polyacantha is very well suited to normal or dry household air and does not need misting or increased humidity.

Keep it warm and protected from cold draughts. Aim for normal indoor temperatures and avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below around 10°C.

Feeding

Feed lightly during spring and summer while the plant is actively growing. A specialist cactus or succulent fertiliser applied around once a month is plenty.

There is no need to feed during autumn and winter.

Compost & Repotting

Good drainage is essential. When repotting, use a free-draining cactus or succulent compost, ideally with additional grit or mineral material to prevent the roots remaining wet for too long.

This is not a plant that needs frequent repotting. Move it up only one pot size when the root system has clearly filled its existing container.

Growth & Care

Euphorbia polyacantha is a succulent shrub with upright, ridged stems that gradually branch to form a dense, sculptural plant. Its shape becomes increasingly impressive as it matures.

Very little pruning is normally required. If damaged or unwanted growth does need to be removed, always wear gloves and take particular care with both the sharp spines and the milky sap.

Where Does Euphorbia polyacantha Come From?

Euphorbia polyacantha is native to north-east tropical Africa and southern Yemen, where it grows naturally in desert and dry shrubland habitats.

Its thick stems store water, allowing the plant to cope with extended dry periods and explaining its preference for bright light, excellent drainage and relatively infrequent watering indoors.

Why You'll Love It

• Strong architectural, columnar shape
• Unusual ridged stems lined with paired spines
• Excellent plant for a bright, sunny room
• Drought tolerant and relatively low maintenance
• Does not need high humidity or misting
• Develops an increasingly branched, sculptural form as it matures
• A distinctive alternative to more familiar cacti and succulents

Pet & Child Safety

Euphorbia polyacantha is harmful if eaten and produces a milky latex sap that can cause significant irritation to the skin and eyes. It also has sharp spines.

Keep the plant out of reach of pets and young children, wear gloves when pruning or repotting, and wash any exposed skin thoroughly if sap comes into contact with it.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Euphorbia polyacantha
Common Name: Fish Bone Spurge
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Native Range: North-east tropical Africa and southern Yemen
Nursery Pot Size: 17cm diameter
Approximate Height: Around 35cm+
Fits Decorative Pot Size: 19cm+
Growth Habit: Upright / branching succulent shrub
Position: Bright light / some direct sun
Humidity: Normal to dry household humidity

Please note: As this is a living plant, the exact height, number of stems and overall shape will naturally vary. Decorative pots shown in photos are not included. This plant is supplied in a plastic nursery pot.