Water
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Also known as Gopher Plant · Gopher Spurge · Narrow-Leaved Glaucous Spurge
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Upright Myrtle Spurge (Euphorbia rigida) is a striking succulent with stiff, upright stems and silvery-green leaves, producing chartreuse flower bracts in spring.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers bright, direct sunlight for best growth and flowering.
Drought Tolerant
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Well-drained, sandy, gritty, or gravelly soil.
50% intensity
Moderate to Warm
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Can tolerate cooler temperatures in winter dormancy.
Low Feed
25% intensity
Fertilize minimally during the growing season.
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 contain a milky sap that is an irritant to skin and eyes, and poisonous if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove spent flower stalks. Cut back stems to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess. Wear gloves as the sap is irritating.
Remove any dead or damaged stems at any time.
Propagate from seed sown in spring or from cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Allow cuttings to callus for a few days before planting in well-draining soil. Seeds may require stratification.
Repot only when necessary, typically every 2-3 years, in spring. Choose a pot with excellent drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining potting mix, similar to that used for succulents. Handle with care due to the sap.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Upright Myrtle Spurge (Euphorbia rigida)
Where Upright Myrtle Spurge (Euphorbia rigida) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Species | Euphorbia rigida |
Similar in genus Euphorbia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
