Sullu spurge (Euphorbia royleana)

Sullu spurge

Also known as: Royle's spurge

Sullu spurge, or Euphorbia royleana, is a deciduous, cactus-shaped succulent. Leafy stems grow from the top of the plant, which loses its leaves in hot or cold periods. This plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers. It has spines on its stems and is considered mildly toxic.

Scientific classification

Species

Sullu spurge (Euphorbia royleana)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Sullu spurge

Distribution of Sullu spurge

Distribution Map

Sullu spurge is indigenous to the temperate and tropical regions of the Himalayas and adjacent areas. It thrives in these high-altitude zones but has also been introduced and cultivated in various other regions where its resilience can be harnessed in suitable climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry and rocky slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Sullu spurge is a deciduous shrub or tree commonly found in gardens. It is prized for its cactus-like appearance. Its prickly features make it suitable as a hedge or barrier. Sullu spurge works well in rock gardens. Suggested companion plants include agave for textural contrast. Alternatively, creeping phlox would provide color contrast.

Symbolism

Toughness and strength

Interesting Facts

The sullu spurge is a large succulent shrub. White milk flows out when its stems and leaves are cut. It is also an evergreen plant. It is wonderful for planting in flowerbeds and gardens.

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Toxicity

Sullu spurge causes rashes, blisters, and swelling through skin contact with its milky sap containing toxic diterpene esters. Ingesting any part of the plant induces nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, accidental ingestion is rare due to the plant's protective spines and non-usage as a food crop.

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Weed Control

Sullu spurge is a highly toxic plant. Its juice can cause skin irritation when it contacts the skin, and splashing into the eyes can cause blindness.

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Quickly Identify Sullu spurge

Upright form reaching 20 feet (6 meters) with cactus-like branches and hairy trunk.

Distinctive greenish-yellow flowers in subterminal cymes with minimal stalks.

Fruit with three-lobed capsules containing brown, striated seeds lacking caruncle.

Succulent, apically clustered leaves with no petiole, falling off before blooming.

Ridged stem with paired downward-pointing spines, turning leafless based on seasons.

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Care Guide for Sullu spurge

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from arid regions, sullu spurge thrives with minimal moisture, requiring watering once every three weeks. It flourishes in well-draining soil that mimics its dry habitat, preventing water accumulation around its roots, crucial for its drought tolerance in xeric landscapes.

Fertilize: Use a balanced succulents and cacti food for sullu spurge, fertilizing bi-annually in spring and summer. Apply a diluted half-strength solution and irrigate beforehand to protect roots. Reduce fertilization in autumn and suspend in winter to support sullu spurge's growth cycle and prevent nutrient burn.

Propagation: Sullu spurge is a resilient plant from a sap-containing genus, easily propagated from cuttings. Handle with care to prevent sap irritation. Use healthy stem segments, allow callousing, and plant in well-draining mix. Monitor moisture closely to promote strong root development and growth.

Repotting: Repot sullu spurge every 2-3 years when it outgrows its container. Use larger pots to accommodate its taproot. The ideal time for repotting is during the warm growth season. After repotting, limit watering until new growth appears to reduce stress.

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