Euphorbia viguieri

Euphorbia viguieri, or Euphorbia as it is commonly known, is a small plant native to Madagascar. It grows between 2 and 5 feet in height and tends to prefer semi-shade and moderate water conditions. It is an evergreen subshrub with striking red or crimson and vinous flowers which can be seen blooming throughout the year. As with other species of Euphorbia, it is also mildly poisonous or toxic if ingested. Not to be forgotten is its spiny, or thorny properties - no doubt a defensive mechanism from predators.

Cultivating Euphorbia is easy. It can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 to 11, in soil that has good drainage and some level of organic matter content. It's best to water Euphorbia moderately and regularly during the summers, and reduce watering during the winter months. In cold regions, Euphorbia is best grown in containers in an area that gets partial sun or semi-shade, and can be brought indoors during the winter months, if necessary. The amount of water given to Euphorbia, when grown in containers, should also be reduced during the winter months. Pruning is best done after flowering, however, it is important to wear gloves when pruning, as the plant is mildly toxic.

Euphorbia is also suited for xeriscaping, as it is drought resistant and can survive in drier climates. All in all, Euphorbia is a spectacularly resilient and captivating plant that requires minimal effort for cultivation. With its bright and vibrant flowers, it makes for a delightful addition to your garden.

Similar plants:

• Euphorbia aeruginosa (Miniature Saguaro)
• Euphorbia bracteata, Pedilanthus bracteatus (Tall Slipper Plant, Slipper Spurge, Candelilla, Little Bird Flower)
• Euphorbia bubalina, Euphorbia laxiflora (Buffalo Euphorbia, Bosmelkbos)
• Euphorbia burmannii (Steenbokbos)
• Euphorbia caput-medusae (Medusa's Head)
• Euphorbia characias (Bush Spurge)
• Euphorbia confinalis (Confinalis, Lebombo Euphorbia, Lebombo Milktree)
• Euphorbia cooperi (Transvaal Candelabra Tree, Bushveld Candelabra Euphorbia)
• Euphorbia cotinifolia (Red spurge, Mexican shrubby Spurge, Caribbean Copper Plant)
• Euphorbia cyathophora, Euphorbia heterophylla, Poinsettia cyathophora (Summer Poinsettia, Wild Poinsettia, Fire on the mountain)