Euphorbia bongolavensis
Origin
Madagascar
Family
Euphorbiaceae
Description
Euphorbia bongolavensis is a shrublet up to 1 m tall. The main stem stops elongating by the formation of brachyblasts (short, densely crowded shoots bearing clusters of leaves) that produce an umbrella like open crown. Though not really a succulent, but a very slow growing xerophyte, Euphorbia bongolavensis is a real must grown by succulent enthusiast. It has uniquely colored leaves with bases of red and the rest of the lancelote shaped leaves a green to bluish green (depending on how much sun or shade). The stem resembles a Commiphora or Bursera with its peeling bark. The flowers are reduced in size and aggregated into a cluster of yellow flowers.
Euphorbia bongolavensis has separate male and female flowers, which are borne on separate Cactus.
Environment
'Spurge' need well-draining soil and need sunny to light shaded places. They are not particular about soil pH, but they cannot tolerant wet soil. Unlike most succulents, Euphorbia does not handle long periods of drought well. It may need weekly watering during the summer. Water whenever the soil is dry several inches below the surface. Water deeply, but don t let them sit in wet soil, which can cause root rot. Add some organic matter or fertilizer to the planting hole. If you are growing them in containers or your soil is poor, feed with a half-strength fertilizer monthly.
Landscape Uses
Excellent specimen for container, Offices, Rock garden
Caution
Euphorbia bongolavensis is likely to exude a toxic latex when its tissue is damaged, which can cause irritation, inflammation and blistering.
