Euphorbia exigua aka Dwarf Spurge

Taxonomy

Euphorbia exigua, also known as dwarf spurge or small spurge, is a species of Euphorbia in the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). It is native to Europe, northern Africa, and the Near East but has become invasive worldwide. In Finland, the only original spurge is marsh spurge, but several similar-sized species and small annual species have settled in. Dwarf spurge can be found in rural and urban flowerbeds, allotments, and occasionally in the wild. The plant's scientific name comes from its use as medicine in ancient times in northern Africa, named in honor of the knowledgeable physician Euphorbius. To control dwarf spurge, plants should be hand-pulled or mechanically controlled before flowering, and uprooted or buried to prevent resprouting at the soil surface. Specific chemical control recommendations are not included due to variable regulations around pesticide registration. Dwarf spurge is also a rare houseplant that thrives with very little water and prefers long-lasting, direct light less than a foot from a window. It likes soil that is extremely well-draining and does not need added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Dwarf Spurge, Hierbecilla Traidora, Small Spurge

How to care for Dwarf Spurge

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Dwarf Spurge due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Dwarf Spurge does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

To ensure the health of your Dwarf Spurge, it's crucial to use a potting soil that won't hold too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to store-bought cactus soil is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.

Lighting

Dwarf Spurge thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Small Spurge.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Dwarf Spurge to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Humidity

Dwarf Spurge prefers dry environments, so misting the plant to provide extra humidity and allow water to linger on the leaves can create an ideal environment for fungi that can be harmful.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Dwarf Spurge is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Dwarf Spurge’s native range is Worldwide.


More info:
Wikipedia