Euphorbia Lactea Crested

Euphorbia lactea 'Cristata', also known as the Crested Euphorbia, Coral Cactus, or Elkhorn Cactus, is a fascinating and highly ornamental succulent. It's not a true cactus but rather a crested (cristate) form of the Euphorbia lactea, where the stem's growing point has mutated, causing it to fan out and develop into unique, wavy, or convoluted shapes resembling coral or a brain.  

This grafted plant typically features a green, fan-like crest, often with attractive variegation in shades of white, cream, or even pink, atop a sturdy, upright green stem (the rootstock, usually another Euphorbia species). The crested portion can grow into a dense, sculptural mass, making it a striking and unusual addition to any indoor or outdoor succulent collection. Small, inconspicuous flowers may occasionally appear along the crest.  

Key Characteristics:

• Crested Growth: The defining feature is its fan-shaped, wavy, or folded growth pattern.   
• Variegated Forms: Many cultivars display beautiful variegation with contrasting colors.
• Grafted Plant: Typically sold as a grafted plant onto a more robust Euphorbia rootstock.   
• Architectural Interest: Its unique shape provides a strong visual statement.   
• Relatively Low Maintenance: Typical succulent care requirements.   
• Small Spines: Possesses small spines along the ridges of the crested form.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight to partial shade. Avoid intense, direct afternoon sun, which can cause sunburn. Morning sun or filtered light is ideal. Indoors, a spot near an east or west-facing window works well.   
• Soil: Requires well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which is a primary cause of root rot.   
• Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the active growing season (spring and summer), you may water more frequently, but always check the soil dryness first. Reduce watering significantly in the fall and winter during its dormant period.   
• Temperature: Thrives in warm temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 30-40°F (-1 to 4°C). Bring indoors during cold weather.

The succulent plant housed in the red pot comes in a 190mm diameter container. While the image provides a representative depiction of what you will receive, but may vary slightly because no two succulents are the same. 

Please note  — NT, TAS, WA customers: please contact us before placing your order due to additional quarantine charges associated with these locations.
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