Description
Euphorbia ammak, commonly known as the big spurge, is a succulent plant in the spurge family and genus. The plant is tree‑like, with mature individuals reaching up to 10 meters tall. It has a short, thick trunk and vertical branches. The fleshy stems are up to 15 cm thick, with 4–5 ridges. The ridges are prominent and wavy, and the outer surface is dark green with purple‑brown stripes. The vascular bundles are arranged in a ribbed pattern, and the pith is woody. Each ridge tip bears short, purple‑brown to gray‑brown spines, and during the growing season the apex of the stem produces lanceolate leaves that fall off early.
Its variegated form, Euphorbia ammak f. variegata, has stems with a pale white epidermis and less pronounced vascular bundles. This plant is native to South Africa and prefers warm, dry, sunny conditions. It thrives in fertile, well‑drained soil. Growth is slow in summer and requires shade and water control; spring to early summer and autumn are the vigorous growth periods. Watering follows a “dry‑then‑thoroughly‑water” rule, and houseplants should receive a light fertilizer every 15–20 days. In winter, maintaining temperatures above 12 °C allows normal growth, while temperatures above 5 °C require water control to prevent freezing damage. Propagation is done by cutting stem segments. After the cut ends dry, insert them into sandy soil; once roots develop, transplant them for further care.
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