Euphorbia obesa

RHS Plant Profile
gingham golf ball
gingham golf ball Dorling Kindersley 2003

Other common names

living baseball

Award of Garden Merit
Houseplants Cactus Succulent Conservatory Greenhouse

A cactus-like succulent to 15cm, with a squat globose or pear-shaped, grey-green stem with 5 ribs, with a pattern of dull reddish bands, and terminal clusters of small yellow flowers in summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1C
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Euphorbiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets: IRRITANT to skin/eyeharmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus
Euphorbia can be annuals, perennials, shrubs or succulents, with milky sap and small flowers held within cupped, often colourful bracts
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
South Africa (Cape)

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow under glass in a mixture of three parts loam to one part grit, in full light. Water moderately when in growth and apply a dilute low nitrogen fertilizer monthly. Keep dry in winter. Ventilate well. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further details

Propagation

Propagate by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Houseplants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Conservatory and greenhouse

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free