Plant Bio

The Dragon Bone Cactus (Euphorbia lactea), also known as the Coral Cactus or Mottled Spurge, is a unique and striking succulent plant with a cactus-like appearance. Despite its common name, it is not a true cactus but rather a succulent belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. Here's a general description:

Stems: The most distinctive feature of the Dragon Bone Cactus is its upright, columnar stems that resemble the shape of a cactus. These stems have pronounced ridges or "ribs" and are typically green with white to cream-colored variegation or mottling, giving them a striking appearance reminiscent of dragon scales.
Spines: Unlike true cacti, the stems of the Dragon Bone Cactus do not have true spines but rather small, thorn-like projections along the ridges. These thorns are not sharp but should still be handled with care to avoid irritation or injury.
Growth Habit: Dragon Bone Cactus tends to grow upright and can reach heights of up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) or more in its natural habitat. In cultivation, it is often kept smaller through pruning or as a container plant, making it suitable for indoor or outdoor use in temperate to warm climates.
Flowers: In spring or summer, mature Dragon Bone Cacti may produce small, inconspicuous flowers near the stem tips. These flowers are typically greenish-yellow to white in color and are followed by the development of small, round fruit capsules containing seeds. However, flowering is relatively rare in indoor specimens.

Care Guide for Dragon Bone Cactus (Euphorbia lactea):

Light: Dragon Bone Cactus thrives in bright, indirect light indoors or partial to full sunlight outdoors. Place it near a sunny window where it can receive several hours of sunlight each day, but avoid exposing it to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as this can lead to sunburn or leaf discoloration.
Temperature: Provide warm temperatures for Dragon Bone Cactus, ideally between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C) during the day and above 50°F (10°C) at night. Protect it from cold drafts, frost, and freezing temperatures, as prolonged exposure to cold can damage the stems and cause them to become soft or mushy.
Watering: Water Dragon Bone Cactus sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. During the active growing season (spring through fall), water when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) of soil feels dry to the touch, and reduce watering frequency in winter when growth slows down. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot and other moisture-related issues.
Soil: Plant Dragon Bone Cactus in well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix amended with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. A soil mix formulated specifically for succulents works well. Ensure that the container has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape freely and prevent waterlogged conditions.
Container: If growing Dragon Bone Cactus in a container, choose a pot with drainage holes and a size that accommodates the plant's root system with some room for growth. Repotting may be necessary every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and provide additional space for the roots.
Fertilization: Fertilize Dragon Bone Cactus sparingly during the growing season with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents. Apply fertilizer at half-strength every 4 to 6 weeks, following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid overfertilizing, as it can lead to excessive growth and may cause damage to the plant.
Pruning: Prune Dragon Bone Cactus as needed to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems and maintain a desirable shape. Use sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors to make cuts, and handle the plant with care to avoid contact with the sap, which can be irritating to the skin and toxic if ingested.
Pest and Disease Control: Monitor Dragon Bone Cactus regularly for signs of common pests such as mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and isolate affected plants if necessary to prevent spread. Ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overwatering to minimize the risk of fungal diseases.
Propagation: Dragon Bone Cactus can be propagated from stem cuttings taken from healthy, mature plants. Allow the cuttings to callus for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil or rooting medium. Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight until they develop roots and establish themselves.
Safety Precautions: Handle Dragon Bone Cactus with care, as its sap can be irritating to the skin and toxic if ingested. Wear gloves and protective clothing when handling the plant or pruning it to avoid contact with the sap. Keep it out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

By following these care guidelines, you can cultivate a healthy and attractive Dragon Bone Cactus (Euphorbia lactea)