Indian corn cob (Euphorbia mammillaris)

Indian corn cob

Also known as: Corncob Cactus

Euphorbia mammillaris (often misspelled Euphorbia mamillaris) is a plant species endemic to the Cape Province of South Africa. It grows up to 35 cm in height, with succulent stems covered with gray spines.

Scientific classification

Species

Indian corn cob (Euphorbia mammillaris)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Winter

Bloom Time

35 cm

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Winter

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Indian corn cob

Distribution of Indian corn cob

Distribution Map

Indian corn cob is endemic to the southern parts of the African continent. It has been introduced and cultivated in various arid and semi-arid regions across the world, thriving in environments that mimic its native habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Thorny bush-lands

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Indian corn cob, including the following common varieties :

Indian corn cob

Quickly Identify Indian corn cob

Succulent plant, resembling a cactus with fleshy, columnar form, reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm) in height.

Angular grooves mark the surface, adorned with conical tubercles and occasional 0.4 inches (1 cm) spines.

Green-hued with subtle variegations, contributing to a textured appearance in a sculptural element.

Small, cup-shaped involucre flowers in yellow and cream, less than 0.2 inches (5 mm) in diameter.

Sparse, small, and ephemeral leaves, 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) in length, lacking distinctive patterns or veins.

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Care Guide for Indian corn cob

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Indian corn cob, adapted from arid regions, excels in drought tolerance and requires watering once every three weeks. Preferring dry conditions, it thrives in well-draining soil to prevent root rot, making it an ideal low-maintenance indoor plant.

Fertilize: Fertilize indian corn cob bi-monthly with a diluted cacti formula during spring-summer; use quarter-strength for mature and half-strength for younger plants. Avoid over-fertilization and apply quarterly or suspend in fall-winter. Water indian corn cob before fertilizing, ensuring even distribution around the base for optimal growth.

Propagation: Indian corn cob is a resilient succulent easily propagated by dividing offsets with sufficient roots. After separating, let cuts callus for 1-2 days before planting in a well-draining mix. Keep the soil lightly moist and provide bright, indirect light to promote healthy root growth.

Repotting: Repot indian corn cob every 2-3 years in spring for optimal growth. Use a slightly larger pot and well-draining soil, watering sparingly to prevent rot. Monitoring moisture levels post-repotting is essential for the healthy development of indian corn cob's unique shape.

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