Euphorbia loricata
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Euphorbia loricata is a succulent with slender leaves at the branch tips which eventually dehisce and drop off, leaving the dried cyathium (flower) stems which resemble sharp spines. Native to South Africa, the plant has vertical growing, 3-5″ diameter branches which branch from the base. Euphorbia loricata is relatively quick growing and will become a striking landscape plant in several years. Leaves get an attractive burgundy hue in the sun. Plants grown in part shade should be gradually acclimated to full sun to avoid burning, and strong winds can cause the stems ofEuphorbia loricata to smash into one another and disfigure the plant.
A striking container plant in areas where temperatures drop below freezing, Euphorbia loricata does not mind being pot-bound and can be pruned for shape and branching. Elsewhere, it can be grown in the ground in well draining rocky soil in cactus and succulent gardens.
Native to South Africa, Euphorbia loricata is easily propagated by cuttings taken in late spring to early summer. As with most succulent and cacti cuttings the wound needs to have time to dry and callus over, then plant the cutting in loose, well draining cactus soil and give it time to root. The plant can also be propagated by seed.
Horticultural Data
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Names and Synonyms: Euphorbia armata, Euphorbia hystrix
Common Names: African Palm Tree
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Origin: Native to the Western Cape and Namaqualand (Prince Albert, Sand River Mountains, Van Rhynsdorp, Gift Berg, Clanwilliam, Lange Valley, Olifants River Valley, Kanakas Berg, Wupperthal) areas of South Africa
Height: 3-4′
Width: 3-4′
USDA Zones: Zone 10a, Zone 10b, Zone 11a
Cold Tolerance: 30° to 35°F; -1.1° to 1.7°C
Heat Tolerance: Extreme heat tolerance
Light Requirement: Lightest shade to full sun
Water needs: Very drought tolerant
Maintenance: None
Uses: A striking container plant in areas where temperatures drop below freezing. Elsewhere it can be grown in the ground in well draining rocky soil in cactus and succulent gardens.
Propagation: It is easily propagated by cuttings taken in late spring to early summer. As with most succulent and cacti cuttings the wound needs to have time to dry and callus over, then plant the cutting in loose, well draining cactus soil and give it time to root. Can also be propagated by seed.
Problems: Few, but can get mealy bugs and scale, especially when grown as a houseplant. Requires excellent drainage, keep roots on the dry side in winter. Strong winds can cause the stems to smash into one another and disfigure the plant.
Research Links:
http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/94661/
http://plantlust.com/plants/euphorbia-loricata/
http://www.llifle.com/Encyclopedia/SUCCULENTS/Family/Euphorbiaceae/27166/Euphorbia_loricata
http://en.hortipedia.com/wiki/Euphorbia_loricata
Shipping & Availability
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There is a minimum purchase of any 4 plants for online orders. All plants shipped bare root. Other sizes may be available for pick up from our growing grounds in Fallbrook, CA. For more information, give us a call at 760-990-4762.
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