The “Alien Eggs Plant” is a fascinating succulent known for its distinctive, spherical form. Its unique appearance and ease of care make it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts, especially those new to succulents.
Meet the Alien Eggs Plant
The “Alien Eggs Plant” is Euphorbia obesa. Native to South Africa’s arid Karoo region, this subtropical succulent’s name, “obesa” (Latin for “fat” or “plump”), accurately describes its fleshy, rounded stem.
Euphorbia obesa grows singly, with a dome-shaped or spherical stem reaching up to 8 inches tall and 4 inches wide. Younger plants resemble sea urchins; older ones become more cylindrical. Its grey-green stem often features reddish-brown or purplish bands. Small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers appear from “circular flowering eyes” along the stem’s ridges in summer.
Essential Care for Your Alien Eggs Plant
Light Needs
Euphorbia obesa thrives in bright, indirect light. Indoors, a south-facing or east-facing window providing at least four hours of daily sunlight is suitable. While it tolerates some direct morning sun, intense midday or afternoon sun can cause scorching or stress coloration. Gradually acclimate the plant to prevent damage when moving it to a sunnier spot.
Watering Practices
Euphorbia obesa is a drought-tolerant succulent, storing water in its thick stem. Overwatering causes root rot; allow soil to dry completely between waterings. During the active growing season (spring to late summer), water thoroughly when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry. In fall and winter dormancy, reduce watering to once a month or less, keeping soil dry.
Soil Requirements
Proper soil drainage prevents root rot for Euphorbia obesa. A well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal. Achieve this by adding perlite, pumice, or coarse sand (30-50%) to quality cactus and succulent soil. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
Euphorbia obesa prefers warm temperatures, ideally 65-85°F (18-29°C). It tolerates slightly cooler temperatures but is sensitive to frost and must be protected from freezing. In winter, it withstands temperatures as low as 40-50°F (4-10°C) if kept dry. It prefers a drier environment; high humidity can cause fungal problems and rot. Good air circulation helps prevent moisture-related issues.
Fertilizing
Euphorbia obesa does not require frequent fertilization, being adapted to nutrient-deficient soils. If desired, apply a balanced, diluted succulent or cactus fertilizer once a month during its active growing season (spring and summer). Over-fertilization leads to weak or leggy growth. Cease fertilization entirely during dormant fall and winter.
Propagation and Common Challenges
Euphorbia obesa is primarily propagated from seeds. It is dioecious (individual plants are male or female), so both sexes are needed for viable seeds.
Pollination occurs naturally via insects or can be manually assisted by transferring pollen from male to female flowers. Once pollinated, the female plant produces a three-angled capsule that explosively releases small, rounded seeds when ripe. Sow seeds in sandy, well-draining potting soil during spring or summer, lightly covered with sand, and keep moist in a warm, bright location. Germination typically occurs within three weeks, but growing robust seedlings requires patience.
Though resilient, Euphorbia obesa faces common challenges. Overwatering is the most frequent problem, causing root rot, yellowing, or mushy leaves. Reduce watering and ensure soil dries completely between sessions.
Less common pests include mealybugs and spider mites. Remove mealybugs (small, white, cotton-like pests) with a rubbing alcohol-dipped cotton swab. Insufficient light causes etiolation, where the plant stretches and becomes leggy, indicating a need for more bright, indirect light.