Euphorbia anoplia
Euphorbia anoplia, also known as Tanzanian Zipper Plant, is a unique and fascinating succulent that resembles a spineless cactus. It is a small clumping stemless succulent that forms a colony of leafless ribbed columns. As the plant matures, it grows up to 30 cm tall, forming an upright, twisting column with horizontal striations and distinct, geometric vertical ridges. Over time, offsets emerge to form a clumping colony. The columns are usually variegated from whitish-green to green. This plant produces small, irregular, maroon-red flowers along the ridgelines.
Euphorbia anoplia is easy to care for, requiring little water once established. It prefers well-drained soil and is ideal for warm climate landscapes, rock gardens, and container gardens. It can also be grown as a houseplant, especially on a bright windowsill, provided it gets enough light. However, it should be protected from frost as it can scar or discolor the stems.
This plant contains white sap, as all Euphorbias do, which can be irritating to the eyes and mucous membranes. Therefore, it's important to be careful when handling it and avoid touching your face or eyes before thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water.
Euphorbia anoplia is drought-tolerant, but some water is required during the summer growing season. The plant likes to remain dry during cooler winter months. It needs well-draining soil, especially if grown in the ground during cold winter rains.
This succulent looks good in rock gardens and in cactus and succulent gardens and borders. It works great in containers where soil drainage and outdoor cultural conditions do not meet the plant’s requirements. Moreover, it makes an interesting house plant if grown in enough light and could be combined with succulents of similar growing requirements in larger containers.
Euphorbia anoplia is native to South Africa and grows well in Victoria if protected from frost. It thrives in warm and dry regions, including the northern parts of Western Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory, as well as in coastal regions with a mild climate, such as Sydney and Perth.
Euphorbia anoplia plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.
All plants are shipped bare rooted unless otherwise stated. Orders are carefully packed and shipped via Express Post to NSW, VIC, QLD, SA and ACT. Orders are dispatched according to our weekly shipping schedule, available on our Shipping page, with tracking provided once your order has been lodged with Australia Post.
Succulents naturally change in colour, size and form throughout the year. Many develop richer colours and more compact growth during periods of seasonal stress, particularly through cooler months and brighter conditions, while warmer or lower-light conditions may produce greener, softer growth.
The plant you receive may therefore vary from the product images depending on the season, its stage of growth and current growing conditions. These natural variations are part of the character of living plants and do not affect their quality or health.
Pickup is available in Seville, Yarra Valley VIC by appointment. Order online as normal and any shipping charge will be automatically refunded after collection, unless you would prefer to receive an additional plant of similar value instead.
Important Plant Information
All plants are shipped bare rooted unless otherwise stated. This helps reduce shipping costs, improves plant safety during transit and allows plants to travel more reliably.
Plants are carefully packed for Express Post and may vary naturally in colour, size and form according to season, growth stage and growing conditions.
Please check the product description and images for information specific to the plant you are purchasing.
If you have any questions about your plant or order, please reach out to us. We’re always happy to help.