Euphorbia pillansii aka Mini Noors

Euphorbia pillansii is a small succulent subshrub in the Euphorbiaceae family. It comes from South Africa's Western Cape. Its range runs from Ladismith west toward the Ceres district. It grows on sandstone in dry shrubland and desert conditions. Rain falls mainly in winter, though summer storms also occur. Its compact clumps have upright stems that branch at several points.

The thick, fleshy stems reach about 1 foot [0.3 metres] tall. Short side branches add to the clump's dense form. Bands of pale and dark grey-green cross the stems. Each stem has seven to nine ribs with raised tubercles. Shallow grooves divide the ribs. The small green leaves fall off soon after they form. Stiff, sharp structures crowd the upper stems and may fork. These are old flower stalks that dry and become corky. They stay on the plant after it sheds its seeds.

Flowers appear from late winter through spring at the branch tips. The pale green or yellow flowers form small units called cyathia. These can stand alone or form small groups. Dark green nectar glands sit close together within each cyathium. Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. The round fruit bears very fine, short hairs. Much of the plant's visual interest comes from its stems and spines. Light shade helps the thick purple spines keep their colour.

In cultivation, this species needs strong light to stay compact. Plants differ in how much direct sun they can take. All-day sun in intense heat can bleach their colour. A mineral potting mix with very free drainage suits it. It accepts a range of soils when drainage is good. Give moderate water while it grows, with average summer feeding. Keep dormant plants dry, especially during the coldest winter period. LLIFLE suggests dry winter conditions near 39°F [4°C]. Its habitat notes report survival down to about 0°F [−17.7°C]. Yet its growing advice urges protection from more than light frost. That extreme report does not establish a safe garden minimum.

LLIFLE describes cultivation as fairly easy, but excess water causes rot. Healthy mature plants can grow outdoors where frost stays mild. Cuttings offer a way to raise more plants from offsets. Leave cut surfaces to heal for about a week before planting. Fresh cuts release poisonous white latex that can irritate skin. Keep this sap away from the eyes and mouth. Handle plants with care when taking cuttings or moving them.