Euphorbia meloformis

RHS Plant Profile
melon spurge
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Award of Garden Merit
Cactus Succulent

A tender, clump-forming, slow-growing succulent producing roughly spherical, leafless and spineless stems to 12.5cm (5in) in diameter with 8-12 vertical, angled ribs, variably marked with narrow, horizontal bands of green and purple-bronze. In spring and summer, greenish-yellow flowers emerge from the ribs near the top of the plant on stems which dry and remain persistent after flowering is over. Older plants can produce offsets from around their base

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 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 Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
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

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows best in well-drained soil, in full sun. to partial shade. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further details

Propagation

Propagate by seed, or from offsets

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Houseplants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Conservatory and greenhouse

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free