Euphorbia meloformis variegata

Botanical Name — Euphorbia meloformis variegata

Common Name — Melon Spurge

Plant Family — Euphorbiaceae

Background

Euphorbia meloformis is native to the eastern Cape Providence of South Africa, mostly found between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown.  Euphorbia meloformis is closely related to Euphorbia obesa.  Euphorbia meloformis variegated variety is a round plant with ridges and striking green and white bands. Highly collectable amongst enthusiasts.

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Growth Requirements

Sun

• Euphorbia plants do best in full sun, at least 5 to 8 hours a day. Avoid intense afternoon sun. Grow outdoors in light shade or indoors in a sunny window with southern exposure and direct sun. 

Temperature/ Humidity 

• Euphorbia meloformis variegated prefer warm temperatures in the 70s and 80s. It can become stressed if left in conditions of extreme temperatures or intense sun. 
• These plants are not cold hardy, if grown outdoors migrate these plants to a sunny spot indoors when night time temperatures drop below 55 ºF. 

Water

• Native to arid and sub-tropical climates Euphorbia obesa are drought tolerant plants. Their soil should be allowed to dry out entirely before watering thoroughly.

Soil/Roots

• Best planted in gritty, well draining soil. A cactus or succulent soil is great.  You can amend a regular potting soil with sand or pumice up to 50% to improve grittiness and drainage. 

Flowering

• These plants produce small hot pink flowers during the spring and summer time.

Fertilization

• These plants do not require fertilizer though it can be added to give container grown plants a boost or to supplement poor soil. Apply a water-soluble, balanced fertilizer monthly, diluted at half strength. 

Propagation

• This plant can occasionally produce offsets at the base.  Remove carefully and let callus for a couple of weeks before planting.
• Can also propagate from seed. Sow freshly harvested seeds in a gitty, well-drained mix. Keep soil moist and provide ample humidity to encourage germination and seedling growth

Health

Diseases

• Euphorbia meloformis variegated are not prone to pests. Though not super common, they are more likely to fall victim to bacterial or fungal infections. Affected plants may need to be destroyed to prevent the spread of disease to other nearby plants. 
• Root rot can also be a concern and is triggered by overwatering. Always err on the side of underwatering.

Maintenance (pruning, legginess, repotting)

• Little maintenance is required to grow these plants. These plants have very shallow root systems, and thus do not require frequent repotting. Repot once every two to three years.

Toxicity

• All Euphorbia plants contain a poisonous sap that is very toxic if ingested and highly irritant if contacted with skin. Keep out of reach of pets and children. Wear gloves and take care when handling this plant.