Mottled Spurge (Euphorbia lactea ‘Mottled’) is a striking succulent, admired for its distinctive marbled appearance. Its unique, often crested, stems display patterns of green, white, and sometimes pink, making it a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts. This resilient plant adds a sculptural element to any collection.
Basic Care Needs
Light
Mottled Spurge thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near a south or west-facing window, ideally with a sheer curtain to diffuse intense sun. While it tolerates some direct sun, prolonged exposure to harsh sunlight can scorch its stems. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and reduced variegation.
Watering
As a succulent, Mottled Spurge is drought-tolerant and sensitive to overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. During the warmer growing season (spring to fall), water thoroughly every two to three weeks. In cooler winter months, reduce watering significantly, ensuring the plant does not sit in soggy conditions.
Soil
Well-draining soil is crucial for Mottled Spurge to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal, promoting excellent drainage and aeration. Enhance drainage by mixing in perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. The plant prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.8.
Temperature and Humidity
Mottled Spurge prefers warm temperatures, thriving best between 65°F and 90°F (18°C-32°C). It is sensitive to cold, particularly below 40°F (4°C), which can cause leaf drop or discoloration. Average household humidity is adequate, as it prefers low to moderate humidity. Avoid cold drafts from windows or air conditioning vents.
Fertilization
Mottled Spurge benefits from infrequent fertilization during its active growing season (spring through summer). Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 NPK formulation, diluted to half or quarter strength. Fertilize approximately once every 4 to 6 weeks, applying to moist soil to prevent root burn. Cease fertilization during fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning Mottled Spurge is minimal, primarily to maintain shape, manage size, or remove damaged growth. The best time for pruning is early spring or late fall. Use clean, sharp tools for precise cuts. Remove no more than one-third of the plant at a time to avoid stressing it.
Propagation
Mottled Spurge is commonly propagated from stem cuttings during spring or summer. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem about 4-6 inches long and make a clean cut. Allow the cut end to dry and form a callus, which can take several days to a week or two. This callusing prevents rot once planted.
Once callused, plant it 1-2 inches deep into a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Rooting hormone can be used but is not always necessary. Place the cutting in a warm location with bright, indirect light and water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Roots typically form within two to four weeks, with new growth indicating establishment.
Addressing Common Problems
Overwatering is a frequent issue, leading to mushy stems, yellowing foliage, and root rot. If these signs appear, reduce watering immediately and ensure the plant is in well-draining soil. Conversely, underwatering can cause stems to shrivel or leaves to drop, remedied by increasing watering slightly while still allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Mottled Spurge can be affected by mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs appear as cottony white masses; spider mites create fine webbing. Address infestations by dabbing mealybugs with diluted rubbing alcohol or washing spider mites with a strong water spray. Reduced variegation or leggy growth indicates insufficient light; relocate to a brighter spot.
Toxicity and Safe Handling
Mottled Spurge produces a milky white sap (latex) when cut or damaged. This sap is an irritant to skin and eyes and is toxic if ingested. Contact can cause redness, inflammation, itching, and sun sensitivity. Ingesting any part can lead to gastrointestinal distress.
When handling Mottled Spurge, especially during pruning or propagation, wear protective gloves and eye protection. If skin contact occurs, wash the affected area immediately with soap and water; for eye contact, flush thoroughly with water. Keep Mottled Spurge out of reach of children and pets.