The showy part of the plant, the section that resembles coral, is called the crest, and is the result of a rare mutation in Euphorbia lactea.
With its origins in Africa, the Euphorbia genus is a surprisingly large family of over 2000 succulent plants. Commonly referred to as “spurges”, they’re known for their poisonous sap, called latex, which was once traditionally used as a purgative.
But the coral cactus is actually two different types of Euphorbias at the same time, which makes it a bit more complex.
The base is usually Euphorbia neriifolia, a plant which looks cactus-like except for its wide, oval leaves. While occasionally other euphorbia species are used, this is by and large the most common due to its straight-growing tendency.
But grafted to the top will be a crest from a different plant. This is Euphorbia lactea, often the ‘Cristata’ variety, which has rippled large leaves that form a fan-like shape.
Occasionally called the candelabra plant, the crested candelabra plant, crested euphorbia, or crested elkhorn, it resembles an unusual coral once grafted together. The edges of the ruffled and crinkled leaves may be purple, green, white, yellow, or red in hue, mounted on a very straight stem.
Rarely, it can produce flowers, although this is quite uncommon at best. The coral cactus flower is tiny and not much to look at, but may be pink or purple in coloration if a flower appears. This usually only happens on older plants, but may never occur at all.
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The latex, or sap, of coral cactus is toxic and may be quite dangerous. White and thick, this sap can cause skin conditions such as dermatitis or other irritations. If it gets in the eyes, it can cause eye irritation or even temporary blindness. Ingested, it causes nausea or vomiting.
This latex will dry clear, but may still be an irritant. It’s best to use gloves at all times when touching this plant, and if you must pick it up, either hold the pot or use barbecue tongs to carefully lift it without risking exposure to the latex.
Like many euphorbias, both the crest and the base may have sharp spines. Those can also cause irritation, so avoid injury from them as well!
~ Terra cotta potted plant
______PLEASE BE AWARE OF YOUR WEATHER BEFORE ORDERING___
*Not responsible for lost or damaged packages due to shipping companies handling.
We will send you info to file a claim.