Sausage Spurge, scientifically known as Euphorbia guentheri, is a unique succulent prized for its distinctive, unusual appearance. Its low-maintenance nature and striking visual interest make it a popular choice for succulent enthusiasts.
Identifying Sausage Spurge
Sausage Spurge is recognized by its long, cylindrical stems that feature prominent spine-tipped tubercles, creating a segmented or “sausage-like” appearance. These stems can grow upright, creep along surfaces, or even hang, reaching lengths of up to 3 feet and diameters of about 0.4 inches. The stems are typically green and unbranched, contributing to the plant’s unique look.
Small, fleshy, sickle-shaped leaves grow from the tubercles, which are deciduous and fall off, leaving behind small scars. The plant also produces small flowers with reddish glands enclosed by greenish-white bracts, sometimes tinged with pink or purple, appearing in spring. Native to East Africa, specifically Kenya, it often grows in open scrub environments.
Caring for Sausage Spurge
Sausage Spurge thrives in full to partial sunlight, preferring bright, direct light for several hours daily to maintain its compact shape. While it can tolerate some indirect light, growth may slow, and the plant might lose its distinctive form. The plant requires very well-draining soil, with a gritty or sandy mix, such as a specialized cactus or succulent potting mix, being ideal. It cannot endure consistently wet conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Watering should be sparse, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common cause of decline for this succulent, so it is important to avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. During warmer summer months, it may require watering approximately once a week, but during winter, watering should be significantly reduced. Sausage Spurge prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C), and must be protected from frost and temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Fertilizing is generally not necessary for established plants. However, a half-strength cactus or succulent fertilizer can be applied monthly or every 2-3 months during the growing season if the plant is in a container or the soil is poor.
Important Safety Information
Like many plants in the Euphorbia genus, Sausage Spurge produces a milky white sap, also known as latex, which can be irritating. Direct contact with this sap can cause irritation to the skin and eyes. If the sap gets into the eyes, it can cause temporary or permanent corneal damage. Ingesting any part of the plant can be harmful, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
When handling Sausage Spurge, especially during pruning or repotting, wear protective gloves and eye protection to prevent sap exposure. After handling the plant, thoroughly wash your hands to remove any residual sap. Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental contact or ingestion.
Propagating Sausage Spurge
Propagating Sausage Spurge is most effectively done using stem cuttings. This method allows for easy multiplication of the plant and is commonly used by enthusiasts. To begin, take a healthy stem cutting from the parent plant using a clean, sharp knife or scissors. After taking the cutting, it is important to allow the cut end to callus, or dry and form a protective layer, before planting. This callusing process typically takes a few days to a few weeks, preventing rot and fungal infections once planted.
Once the cutting has sufficiently callused, plant it in a well-draining soil mix, such as a succulent or cactus blend. Applying a rooting hormone to the callused end can encourage faster root development. While propagation from seeds is possible, it can be more challenging and less common due to germination difficulties.