Where it grows
This Euphorbia is native to the Eastern Cape and Kwazulu-Natal, with its distribution stretching from Grahamstown to Pietermaritzburg.
Special features
Euphorbia bupleurifolia forms an attractive above-ground caudex stem that resembles a pineapple or cycad. The markings on the stem are caused by old leaves that have been shed by the plant. The top of the stem is tipped by long, narrow leaves. It has yellow flowers sporadically from the middle of winter until the middle of summer. The leaves die off in winter. Localities in Pietermaritzburg have specimens that grow far larger than those in the Eastern Cape, which remain small.
Care Guide
These plants prefer plentiful sunlight or a little bit of light shade. They can be adjusted to full sun as adults if this is done slowly and carefully. Plant in a soil mix that drains well, as they do not like having their roots sit in water for too long. Water heavily in the warmer parts of the year, making sure that the soil dries between waterings. Keep completely dry in winter when these plants are dormant and without leaves.
Growing season
Spring and summer.
Propagation
Seeds.