Stone Spurge is an ornamental succulent plant which grows up to 6 cm tall, that grows in the form of a somewhat flattened half-sphere. Straight lines from the apex radiate out indicating the edges of the equal sectors of the regular structure. Each sector is characterized by a row of dots along its midrib, the marks left by old discarded cyathia. As the plant grows the cyathia are replaced by newer ones, new flowers, at the inner end of each row over time. The color of the plant skin or surface may be green or purplish to pinkish, probably also changing somewhat seasonally and with sun and water supply.
Scientific Name: Euphorbia obesa subsp. symmetrica
Synonyms: Euphorbia symmetrica
Common Names: Stone Spurge
How to grow and maintain Stone Spurge (Euphorbia obesa subsp. symmetrica):
It requires full sunlight all year long. In summer, plants can be moved outdoors to benefit from the increased temperatures and increased exposure to daylight. Growing the plants close to a window is usually sufficient to provide the needed light in cooler temperatures for a winter dormancy period.
It grows well in well-draining, gritty soil or cactus potting mix. Add a little gravel to the soil and use an unglazed pot which will promote evaporation of any excess water.
You can allow the soil to dry out between each watering. Before watering the plant check underneath the pot through the drainage holes to see if the roots are dry. If so then add some water. Do not water too often to prevent overwatering, that can potentially kill it off. In mid-autumn gradually reduce the amount of water given. During the winter rest period water the plants only enough to keep the potting mixture from drying out.
It prefers an optimal temperatures of 60 degrees Fahrenheit – 85 degrees Fahrenheit / 16 degrees Celsius to 29 degrees Celsius.
Fertilize every two weeks with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer during its growing season in the spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing your plant during the fall and winter months.
It can be easily propagated from seed sown during spring or summer. Sow in a sandy to gravel-rich, well-drained potting soil in a sunny warm position and in a standard seed tray. Cover seed with a thin layer of sand 1-2mm and keep moist. Germination occurs within 3 weeks. The seedlings have a slow to medium growth rate and can be planted out into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle.
Pests and Diseases:
It has no serious pest or disease problems.