How to identify Mottled spurge (Euphorbia lactea)

How to identify Mottled spurge (Euphorbia lactea)

Mottled spurge, also known as Candelabrum tree, Mottled candlestick, Frilled fan, Candelabra spurge

Mottled spurge presents as a sculptural, cactus-resembling succulent, most commonly seen between 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) when kept indoors but capable of reaching up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) in its natural environment. This uniquely mottled shrub boasts angular, spiny stems that bear green and white patterns, often forming in a distinctive crested shape. Small leaves transiently appear in the warmer months but are soon shed, and the rarity of flowers emphasizes the plant's architectural stems. It is important to note the presence of a potentially harmful, milky sap that emerges when the plant is damaged.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Succulent, Shrub

Leaf Type: Evergreen, Deciduous

Quickly Identify Mottled spurge

Angular, spiny stems with green and white patterns.

Distinctive crested shape in stem growth.

Small, lanceolate light green leaves that drop off quickly.

Pairs of inconspicuous yellow flowers near stem tips.

Robust stems with cristate growth form and milky sap when damaged.

Detailed Traits of Mottled spurge

Leaf Features

The leaves of mottled spurge are small, lanceolate in shape, and appear at the growing tips during summer. They generally measure around 0.2 to 0.3 inches (5 to 8 mm) in length. These leaves are a light green color, with a smooth texture and simple vein pattern. However, they drop off quickly, leaving the plant leafless most of the time.

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

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Flower Features

The flowers of mottled spurge are small, inconspicuous, and often appear near the stem tips. These flowers exhibit a yellow tinge and form in paired cyathia, each about 0.1-0.2 inches (2-5 mm) in diameter. They lack prominent petals and are structured in a unique, cup-like arrangement. The flowers bloom sporadically and do not emit a noticeable fragrance. They are often missed because of their size and location on the plant.

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Stem Features

The stem of mottled spurge features four angled, spiny contours with paired black thorns that recur along their length. The branches are mottled, showcasing an intriguing mix of green heavily striped with white lines. These stems are robust, typically thicken as they mature, and may also exhibit a fascinating cristate growth form, where they fan out in a crested or curved manner. The fleshy texture of the stem assists in water storage, characteristic of many succulents.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

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Mottled spurge and Their Similar Plants

Crown of thorns vs. Mottled spurge: What's The Difference?

The Euphorbia milii is commonly known as the crown of thorns or Christ thorn, as it is believed to the plant associated with the crown of thorns that was worn by Christ. It needs to stay above 10 ℃ with full sun.

Poinsettia vs. Mottled spurge: What's The Difference?

The poinsettia is a common sight in the United States during Christmastime. It was popularized by Albert Ecke after he emigrated to California from Germany. Today, 70 million poinsettias are sold in a 6-week period.

Petty spurge vs. Mottled spurge: What's The Difference?

Petty spurge (Euphorbia peplus) is an annual plant from Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is fast-growing and has become invasive in some countries because it outcompetes other species for resources such as moisture and sunlight. Petty spurge latex is mildly toxic, has nevertheless attracted the attention of researchers in the US and Germany who hope to isolate useful compounds from it.

Spotted spurge vs. Mottled spurge: What's The Difference?

Spotted spurge (Euphorbia maculata) is a low-growing summer annual that is commonly considered a weed. Spotted spurge grows in almost any open area. The stems of this species secrete a milky sap that can irritate the skin and is toxic to sheep. Spotted spurge can be controlled by digging up the plant and its roots and mulching the area to prevent regrowth. It is naturally killed by frost.

Pencil cactus vs. Mottled spurge: What's The Difference?

Pencil cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli) is a small tree shrub that grows best in warm arid climates and is named for its pencil-sized succulent branches. Pencil cactus is native to black clay soils in Africa and can be poisonous if ingested. It produces a latex compound that can be poisonous and cause blindness.

Devil's-backbone vs. Mottled spurge: What's The Difference?

Devil's-backbone (Euphorbia tithymaloides) is a succulent species of spurge native to North and Central America. It has been planted in gardens since the 17th century and valued for its unique appearance and its habit of attracting hummingbirds. However, nearly all parts of this species are toxic and should not be consumed.

Cypress spurge vs. Mottled spurge: What's The Difference?

The cypress spurge is an ornamental plant native to Europe. Because of its strong tendency to overrun the habitats of other species, this plant is classified as a noxious weed in various states, including Colorado. Although this plant attracts bees and other pollinators, some sections of it are hazardous and contain irritants.

Caper spurge vs. Mottled spurge: What's The Difference?

Caper spurge (Euphorbia lathyris) is most commonly known as an invasive weed. It is considered toxic to humans and almost all species of livestock. The exception to this is that some goats can eat caper spurge without becoming ill. However, the plant's toxins will be carried into the goat's milk, making it unfit for human consumption. The toxicity has been put to use, however, in deterring moles and gophers from invading gardens.

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Key Facts About Mottled spurge

Attributes of Mottled spurge

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Succulent, Shrub

Plant Height

61 cm to 4.5 m

Spread

60 cm to 1.5 m

Leaf Color

Green

Variegated

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Gold

Yellow

Stem Color

Black

Leaf type

Evergreen, Deciduous

The Toxicity of Mottled spurge

Highly Toxic to Humans

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Scientific Classification of Mottled spurge

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

Family

Spurge

Genus

Spurges

Species

Mottled spurge (Euphorbia lactea)

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Distribution Map of Mottled spurge

Mottled spurge originated in parts of South Asia, where its presence remains significant. Its cultivation has spread mottled spurge across various major regions, predominantly in tropical climates. While mottled spurge is appreciated for ornamental purposes, it has also expanded beyond its native zone to numerous other areas. In certain regions, mottled spurge is sometimes thought to be mildly intrusive, potentially having an impact on local ecosystems.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Mottled spurge

A Comprehensive Guide to Mottled spurge How to Grow and Care for Mottled spurge