Baseball plant - Euphorbia obesa (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Baseball plant

Also known as: Turkish temple, Baseball cactus

The baseball plant is a thornless ball that resembles a baseball in appearance. Its smooth sage-green skin has reddish-brown stripes running across it, almost as if it were wearing clothes made from a fabric with delicate, geometric, dark-print patterns, making it extremely distinctive.

Scientific classification

Species

Baseball plant (Euphorbia obesa)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

20 cm

Plant Height

9 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Purple, Black

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Pink, Green

Flower Color

Yellow

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Baseball plant

Toxicity

Baseball plant's sap contains diterpene esters causing toxicity. Contact leads to skin irritation or allergic reactions, while ingestion causes severe gastrointestinal distress. The entire plant is toxic. Cats and dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms after exposure. Immediate medical attention is needed to address exposure in pets or humans.

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Care Guide for Baseball plant

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Baseball plant thrives in arid conditions with exceptional drought tolerance, requiring watering every three weeks. Preferring well-draining soil, it is crucial to monitor soil dryness during the growing season to prevent root rot and excessive water stress, making it a low-maintenance indoor plant.

Fertilize: Fertilize baseball plant sparingly with a succulent-specific formula at half-strength monthly during spring and summer. Avoid feeding in winter when baseball plant is dormant. Dilute fertilizer and apply to moist soil to prevent root burn and enhance nutrient uptake for better growth and potential flowering.

Propagation: Baseball plant is a South African globular succulent, known for its symmetrical shape. Propagation is done via seeds, requiring cross-pollination between male and female plants. Seeds thrive in well-draining sandy soil with careful watering and bright, indirect light for seedlings to prosper.

Repotting: Repot baseball plant every 2-3 years in spring. It thrives in snug pots that support its root ball. After repotting, provide bright light and refrain from watering for a week. Use a cactus mix with pots featuring drainage holes to prevent root rot.

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