Euphorbia Lactea 'White Ghost'


Meet the ultimate desert sculpture! Native to tropical Asia, Euphorbia Lactea—commonly known as the Mottled Candle Cactus or Dragon Bones—features distinct three-sided, ridged stems marbled with silver-white and dark green patterns. Armed with tiny spines along its zigzag edges, this resilient succulent brings bold geometric contrast into bright, sunny spaces!

  • Toxic to pets and children
  • Repot once every 3 years
  • Fertilize once a month
  • Bright, direct light
  • Very little water

About Euphorbia Lactea

Origin

Native to tropical Asia, primarily India and Sri Lanka.

Air Purifying

This unique, sculptural amigo helps filter indoor air while absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing fresh oxygen.

Toxicity

Toxic to pets and humans! Like all Euphorbias, it contains a milky white latex sap that causes severe skin irritation, eye inflammation, and stomach distress if ingested. Handle with care and keep far out of reach of curious pets and kids! 

Caring for Euphorbia Lactea

Watering

Water when the soil has dried out 90–100% (completely dry). This drought-tolerant, succulent-like amigo stores water in its thick stems, so it thrives on tough love and strictly hates sitting in soggy soil.

Light and Placement

Sun-lover alert! Thrives best in bright, direct to bright indirect light. Give it a front-row seat at a sunny south- or west-facing window to keep its unique shapes and pale marbled patterns vibrant.

Nutrition

Keep it light! Feed once a month during spring and summer with a diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer. Skip the food completely in fall and winter when the plant is dormant. 

Repotting

Repotting is rarely needed because of its slow growth and small root system! Upgrade every 2–3 years in spring using a heavy, fast-draining cactus and succulent mix to anchor its top-heavy branches. Always wear gloves when handling to protect your hands from spines and sap! 

Pruning and Flowering

Indoor flowering is extremely rare. Pruning is usually done only to shape the plant or remove damaged branches using sharp tools—just be cautious of the irritating white sap that leaks from cuts! 

Euphorbia Lactea SOS

Illness

Root rot from overwatering is the biggest threat to this hardy amigo. Keep an eye out for occasional pests like mealybugs hiding near the ridges, but with proper light and dry soil, it is virtually indestructible!

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