November 14th at 7pm PST
Redlands Church of the Nazarene
1307 East Citrus Avenue
Redlands, CA 92374
Program Description: Growing Euphorbia
The family of Euphorbiaceae is large and diverse. It is estimated that there are in excess of 5000 species from around the world. Of this group there are hundreds of succulent Euphorbias. Many of the succulent Euphorbias originate from Africa and Madagascar. However, many Euphorbias originate from other countries like the common Poinsettia which is from Mexico. All Euphorbias have a white milky sap which can burn the skin. Always wash your hands after handling Euphorbias! I make it a habit to always wash my hands after being in the nursery regardless of what plants I have handled. Euphorbias come in all shapes and sizes… which make them a collector’s dream. I remember my first Euphorbia, E. obesa, the “Baseball Euphorbia.” I thought it was the coolest plant I ever saw. Another of my favorites is E. bupleurifolia, which looks like a mini pineapple.
Most Euphorbia plants have flowers that produce three seeds per pod. After the seed pod ripens and dries, it eventually pops and shoots the seeds into the air landing where they may. Many growers will wrap seed pods in netting to capture the seeds. Some other favorites of mine are the Madagascar species that can look like mini palm trees. Many have beautiful lush green leaves. There are so many forms, you will be sure to find something that will strike your fancy, from forms that resemble cacti, to others that look like a rosette with many “arms” radiating from the center. You will never get bored looking for new species to grow!
Since there are so many different species of Euphorbia and originating from so many different environments, it is difficult to summarize their care. There are however some basic cultural practices that can be applied to most species. Most Euphorbias prefer part to full sun. Even plants that grow in full sun in their natural environment will enjoy some shade. All my plants receive some shade during the day, and most are under 30-50 percent shade, with occasional direct sun during sometime of the day. As for soil, I prefer to use a well-drained mix of 50% inorganic material such as pumice and 50% organic material such as a commercial potting mix. Some species may require more inorganics, which you will learn from research and growing experience. During summer months I water once or twice a week depending on weather and species. Euphorbias like food! Feed you plants regularly! I feed once a week with water soluble fertilizer that contains all major and micronutrients. If your plants have yellow leaves with dark veins, you are missing a micronutrient such as iron. Increase the feeding to correct the problem. Euphorbias can be grown from cuttings or seeds easily. When taking cuttings wear gloves since the white sap can burn your skin. Take cuttings at the joint and make a clean cut with a knife or pruner. A jagged cut can lead to infection and death to your plant. Another fun way to start plants is from seed. Plant seeds in a well drained mix. They will germinate in about one to two weeks. They are fun to grow and will gain size quickly.
Speaker Biography: Al Klein of Botanic Wonders
Al Klein’s lifelong passion for the natural world began during his childhood growing up in Chicago. Frequent visits to the Field Museum of Natural History and a deep interest in the natural sciences inspired his early hobbies, which included growing exotic plants like cacti and collecting fossils, minerals, and insects.
At the age of 17, Al moved to California and discovered his true calling in horticulture. Captivated by the diversity and beauty of California’s flora, he began working at South Shores Nursery in San Clemente while attending California State Polytechnic University in Pomona. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Ornamental Horticulture, with an emphasis in landscape design and retail nursery management.
After graduation, Al joined Roger’s Gardens in Corona del Mar, where he was promoted to Nursery Manager within a year. He soon had the opportunity to help open a new nursery and gift shop in Escondido called Canterbury Gardens and Gifts. His leadership and expertise quickly led to a partnership in the business. Al recently retired from Canterbury Gardens after 35 years of service.
Today, he is fully dedicated to running his own nursery business, Botanic Wonders. This venture is the culmination of his lifelong passion. Botanic Wonders specializes in the growing and selling of rare and exotic plants, including unique succulents, cacti, and cycads.
Gates Cactus and Succulent Society 