Euphorbia horrida var. striata
Euphorbia horrida var. striata is a slow-growing South African succulent valued for its heavily ribbed blue-grey stems and prominent spine-like structures. Mature plants develop a particularly ornate, architectural appearance, with pale glaucous stems contrasting against structures that can range from cream and grey to dark brown or almost black.
Ornate blue-grey stems
The upright stems develop numerous pronounced vertical ribs covered with a natural glaucous bloom, producing colours ranging from grey-green and blue-grey to silvery blue. Persistent hardened flower stalks line the rib margins, creating the strongly armed appearance traditionally associated with the Euphorbia horrida group.
Individual stems can develop heads around 12 cm across and, given many years, may eventually reach approximately 40 cm in height. Growth is slow, with basal offsets appearing as plants mature and gradually producing impressive multi-stemmed specimens.
Botanical classification
Euphorbia horrida var. striata is a formally published botanical name with a long history in cultivation. It has subsequently been recombined as Euphorbia polygona var. striata, reflecting modern study of the closely related and highly variable Euphorbia polygona complex.
Taxonomic treatments differ, with some recognising the plant at varietal level while others include it within the broader species Euphorbia polygona. We retain the familiar Euphorbia horrida var. striata name for this listing.
Growth and flowering
Small specialised Euphorbia flower structures, known as cyathia, develop around the crown, where fresh growth can also introduce attractive reddish to burgundy tones. Persistent flower stalks harden with age and contribute to the increasingly formidable appearance of mature plants.
Despite its cactus-like form, this plant is a Euphorbia rather than a cactus, and the structures along its ribs are botanically different from conventional cactus spines.
Growing Euphorbia horrida var. striata
Grow in a very free-draining succulent mix in full sun to partial shade. It performs particularly well in containers but can also be grown in suitably well-drained garden positions. Indoors, provide strong natural light to maintain compact growth and good stem colour.
Water during the warmer growing months and allow the growing medium to drain freely and dry appropriately between waterings. Reduce watering substantially during cool winter conditions. Light feeding during active growth is sufficient, as excessive high-nitrogen fertiliser can encourage larger, softer growth with reduced colour.
Take care when handling established plants because of the rigid structures along the ribs. Like other Euphorbia, damaged tissue produces a white milky latex sap that can irritate skin and eyes and is harmful if ingested. Avoid contact and wash exposed skin promptly.
Euphorbia horrida var. striata plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images. Stem colour and individual growth characteristics will vary naturally according to age, season 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.