Description
- Common names:
- White Ghost, Ghost Euphorbia, Candelabra Cactus, Elkhorn Euphorbia, Dragon Bones, Falso Cactus Blanco, Euphorbia Fantasma
- Botanical name:
- Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost', Euphorbia lactea f. cristata variegata
- Description:
- A stunning variegated succulent with ghostly white stems and sculptural branches. This rare euphorbia features distinctive ridged forms and lacks chlorophyll, creating an ethereal, otherworldly appearance.
Features
- Rarity:
- Rare Collector's Plant
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Toxic to All Pets (keep out of reach)
- Air Purifier:
- Moderate Air Purifier (6/10)
- Form factor:
- Architectural, Variegated Leaves, Upright Bush, Sculptural
- Origin:
- India and Sri Lanka
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Modern Living Room, Minimalist Office, Succulent Garden Display, Contemporary Bedroom, Bookshelf Centerpiece
Care Guide
Care level:
Intermediate+
This variegated euphorbia requires more attention than typical succulents due to its lack of chlorophyll, making it dependent on the green rootstock for nutrients. Proper light balance and careful watering are essential to prevent rot and maintain the grafted portions.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Place near a south or west-facing window with bright, filtered light for 4-6 hours daily. Too much direct sun can scorch the delicate white stems, while insufficient light will cause the green rootstock to overtake the white portions and weaken the plant.
Water:
Water When Dry+
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel completely dry to the touch, typically every 2-3 weeks depending on season and humidity. Overwatering is the most common cause of death, as the white portions are especially susceptible to rot.
Humidity:
Low / Average Humidity+
Thrives in typical household humidity levels of 30-50% and requires no special humidity adjustments. Good air circulation around the plant is more important than humidity levels to prevent fungal issues.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm temperatures of 18-29°C / 65-85°F and should be protected from cold drafts or temperatures below 10°C / 50°F. Keep away from air conditioning vents and cold windows during winter months.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-11+
Hardy outdoors year-round only in USDA Zones 10-11 where temperatures remain above 10°C / 50°F. In cooler zones, this plant must be grown indoors or brought inside before the first frost.
Fertilizing:
Light Feeder+
Feed sparingly with a diluted (half-strength) balanced liquid fertilizer or specialized cactus fertilizer once every 6-8 weeks during spring and summer only. Overfertilizing can cause excessive green growth that overtakes the desirable white portions.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years in spring using a well-draining cactus mix, or when you notice roots growing from drainage holes. Handle with extreme care wearing thick gloves, as the toxic milky sap can cause severe skin irritation and the plant is fragile at graft points.
Cleaning:
Dust Occasionally+
Gently remove dust with a soft, dry brush or compressed air every few weeks to keep the white stems looking pristine. Avoid wiping with damp cloths as excessive moisture on the stems can promote rot on the chlorophyll-deficient tissue.
Propagation:
Propagates by Cuttings+
Propagate by taking cuttings from the green base portions only, allowing the cut end to callus for 3-5 days before planting in well-draining soil. The white portions cannot be propagated independently as they lack chlorophyll and must remain grafted to green tissue to survive.