Euphorbia bougheyi varigate

Euphorbia bougheyi varigate

Over the years I've had a couple of E. bougheyi, but this is my first varigate form, which presents yellow veins on the stems. This plant is from Mozambique, and is commonly called Ribbon Spurge. Although it isn't obvious in the photo, the flat stems have three angles. I like it because of its architectural interest.

This Euphorbia species is popular as a house and office plant because it does not need full sun and it looks especially good in contemporary settings. It grows best in very light shade or dappled light. It can grow quite tall, but it eventually forms a woody trunk that is not very attractive. Once it gets to a good height it can get top-heavy and fall, breaking off stems. That is when most of these plants go into the trash, so it usually doesn't get old enough to see the woody trunk.

If a stem breaks, it can easily be rooted. Just cut the stem, dry the cut end to a callus, and then pot it. After a time, it will form roots. As with all Euphorbs, it has an irritating sap. This particular species is said to produce severe skin irritation, so when handling, extra precautions are necessary.