Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy, providing just enough to keep the soil from completely drying out.
Also known as Fiddler's Spurge · Governor Grant's Livery · Jacob's Ladder
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Mexican Fireplant (Euphorbia heterophylla) is a vibrant annual known for its striking red and yellow bracts, adding a fiery display to gardens. It's a popular ornamental.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade for best flowering and compact growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, do not overwater.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant contain a milky, irritating sap. Ingestion can cause oral irritation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Skin contact can cause irritation and blistering.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy, providing just enough to keep the soil from completely drying out.
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead or leggy stems. Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning can be done at any time, but is best after flowering to encourage new blooms and prevent seed dispersal.
Propagate by seeds sown in spring or by stem cuttings taken during the growing season. Seeds germinate readily in warm conditions.
Cuttings should be allowed to callus for a few days before planting in well-draining soil.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, preferably in spring. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Mexican Fireplant (Euphorbia heterophylla)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Species | Euphorbia heterophylla |
Similar in genus Euphorbia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
