Euphorbia restricta aka Euphorbia Restricta

Euphorbia restricta is a small, spiny succulent in the Euphorbiaceae family. It comes from the Letaba district of Limpopo, South Africa. LLIFLE records two small colonies at its original mountain site. These grow at about 4,920 feet [1,500 metres] above sea level. Plants occupy shallow soil in cracks in dolomite rock. The surrounding grassland holds many grasses and other flowering plants. The species returned to cultivation in the mid-1980s after a long absence.

Plants usually stay below 1 foot [0.3 metres] tall. A large tuberous root supports branches that rise from the base. The root measures about 0.13–0.26 feet [0.04–0.08 metres] across. Short, thick stems curve outward or sprawl across the ground. They reach about 0.52 feet [0.16 metres] long. Each stem has four shallow ribs, though some have six. Narrow points divide the stems into short, oval sections. The rib edges form wings with wavy teeth. Each node bears two pairs of spines. One pair is sharp; the other forms tiny prickles.

The small flower clusters are called cyathia. Each reaches about 0.02 feet [0.006 metres] across. Their yellow nectar glands are oblong and touch at their edges. The clusters form simple cymes with almost no stalk. The fruit has blunt lobes and lacks a stalk. It measures about 0.02 feet [0.006 metres] across. The seeds are smooth and nearly round.

This slow-growing plant suits pots and forms small clumps over several years. It needs an open potting mix that drains well. Outdoors, it can grow in poor, rocky ground. Give it bright light, but avoid harsh summer sun. Partial shade also suits it. Indoors, LLIFLE recommends several hours of morning or afternoon sun. Warmth supports growth in late spring and summer. Water well during growth, then let the soil dry before watering again. Half-strength liquid feed can support growth during this period.

Protect this species from frost. Keep it cool and bright during its winter rest. Withhold feed and stop watering, or water only once through winter. Too much water can cause rot, with winter watering a key risk. Low winter light can produce thin, stretched growth. Repot every two years into a pot with ample drainage holes. Seeds and cuttings provide ways to raise new plants. Damaged tissue releases poisonous white latex. This sap can harm the eyes, skin, and mouth. Handle plants with care and avoid contact with the sap.