Euphorbia

For more care advice about Ian, check out our complete guide to cactus care.

The euphorbia looks like the quintessential cactus, although it’s technically not one (it grows very very tiny leaves, which cacti do not). It’s native to Southern Africa, where it stands out in the dry scrublands, basking in the blazing sun. As it grows, sometimes almost ten metres tall, its trunk becomes woody. Eventually, it becomes a strange, bulbous tree. Often it will flower and grow round, red fruit.

As a houseplant it won’t become a tree, or grow flowers and fruit (we don’t have the necessary conditions). It will remain a tall, handsome plant that deals very well with living inside. When caring for it, think desert: Lots and lots of light; not a lot of water. 

Please be aware that Ian's sap is poisonous. It can cause a rash if it gets on your skin and it's highly toxic if consumed. We don't recommend him for homes with small children or curious pets.

Did you know?

The milky latex inside it is poisonous, but some indigenous groups in Africa have learned how to turn it into a medicine for a variety of ailments.