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Cactus SucculentShrubs

Euphorbia leuconeura

A tropical, succulent shrub capable of reaching 1.8m (6ft) and 1m (39in) across. Young plants' stems are cylindrical but mature to four or five sided stems the edges of which are covered in dense brown bristles. In bright sunlight the leaf stalks and leaf margins can take on a reddish tinge. The young foliage is dark green and prominently white veined, forming a herringbone pattern while older foliage becomes all green. Clusters of small, insignificant white flowers without petals, from red buds, are produced in the leaf axils at the tips of the stems on mature plants in spring. Suitable for growing as a feature plant indoors, or a warm greenhouse or conservatory

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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Brown White Red Green White
Summer Green Brown Red White
Autumn Green Brown Green
Winter Green Brown Green
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H1A
Botanical details
Family
Euphorbiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets: IRRITANT to skin/eye, harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Euphorbia can be annuals, perennials, shrubs or succulents, with milky sap and small flowers held within cupped, often colourful bracts

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows best in well-drained soil, in full sun to partial shade and temperatures no lower than 15˚C (60˚F). See Euphorbia for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by cuttings in spring or early summer; dip cut surfaces in charcoal or lukewarm water to prevent bleeding

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Houseplants
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

Prune when required to reduce size in early spring

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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