The “Fang Plant” is a common name that has been applied to at least two distinct succulent species. While Kalanchoe beharensis ‘Fang’ is one, this article primarily focuses on Euphorbia pseudocactus or Euphorbia enopla. These Euphorbia species are spurges known for their striking, cactus-like appearance and prominent, tooth-like features.
Understanding the Fang Plant
The Fang Plant, botanically known as Euphorbia pseudocactus or Euphorbia enopla, resembles true cacti despite being unrelated. These succulents feature columnar, ribbed stems that grow upright, often branching into a candelabra shape. Stems are typically green, sometimes with yellowish or grayish-green markings, and are segmented, representing annual growth.
Prominent, tooth-like spines or tubercles adorn the ridges of their stems, giving the plants their “fang” moniker. These spines vary in color from brown to reddish, eventually turning black or gray with age. The slow growth habit of these Euphorbia species allows their unique physical attributes to develop distinctly over time, making them intriguing specimens for cultivation.
Fang Plant Care Essentials
Adequate light is essential for the Fang Plant’s health and compact growth. It thrives in bright, direct sunlight for at least six hours daily, whether outdoors or near a south or west-facing window indoors. Insufficient light can cause etiolation, leading to stretched, paler stems and reduced spine development.
Watering requires caution, as these succulents are drought-tolerant and prone to overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, typically every 2-3 weeks during the active growing season (spring and summer). During cooler or dormant months, significantly reduce watering frequency, or even withhold water, to prevent root rot.
A well-draining soil mix is essential to prevent waterlogging and subsequent root decay. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal, or a blend of standard potting soil with coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to enhance drainage. The plant prefers warm temperatures, generally between 18-27°C (64-80°F), and tolerates low humidity, reflecting its native arid environment. A dilute, balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied once or twice during the active growing season to support growth.
Propagating Fang Plant
Propagating the Fang Plant is primarily done through stem cuttings. The ideal time is late spring or early summer, coinciding with the plant’s active growth. Use a sterile, sharp knife or scissors to take a stem cutting.
After taking the cutting, it is important to allow the severed end to dry and form a callus, which can take several days to one or two weeks. This callusing prevents rot once planted. Once callused, plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mixture, similar to that for mature plants. Keep the soil barely moist until rooting occurs.
Common Challenges and Safety
Fang Plants, while generally robust, can encounter a few common cultivation challenges. Overwatering is the most frequent problem, leading to root rot, which appears as soft, dark brown spots on stems. Insufficient light can cause etiolation, where stems stretch and become elongated. Pests like mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites can also affect these succulents, often appearing as white, cottony masses or small insects.
A significant safety consideration for all Euphorbia species, including the Fang Plant, is their milky white sap, also known as latex. This sap is an irritant, causing skin rashes, blistering, and eye irritation upon contact. When handling the plant, especially during pruning or propagation, wear protective gloves and eye protection. Due to its irritant properties, keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.