With its exotic, cactus-like appearance, the triangular spurge (Euphorbia trigona) is a very common and popular houseplant. Under optimal location and care conditions, this non-hardy euphorbia species can reach considerable dimensions.
How do you propagate triangular spurge?
To propagate triangular spurge (Euphorbia trigona), cut cuttings, let them dry for a few days and plant them in sandy, dry substrate. The cuttings root quickly in a warm, rather dry environment in a bright location.
Combine cutting and propagation in a targeted manner
The triangular spurge is a type of plant for which regular pruning is not absolutely necessary for he althy plant growth. Nevertheless, cutting off certain parts of the plant can be useful in order to effectively limit the height growth of a Euphorbia trigona. The cut can also ensure greater branching of the plant, which otherwise often grows in a tightly columnar manner. Before making any cut, you should be aware that the cuts on a Euphorbia trigona remain visible like scars and that you should make them consciously. In addition, the cutting material can be used wonderfully easily for the usual propagation through head cuttings.
Tips for cutting cuttings
The following things are important and must be observed when cutting cuttings:
- Gloves protect against the poisonous latex of euphorbias
- Use a cutting tool that is as sharp and clean as possible
- let the cuttings dry before inserting them into the substrate
While with many other plant species it is advisable to introduce the cuttings very quickly into the planting substrate intended for the rooting phase, freshly cut cuttings of Euphorbia trigona should first be allowed to dry in a rather shady and evenly temperate place for a few days. If this is not taken into account, rot can quickly develop at the cutting interfaces. In addition, when propagating this type of plant, the substrate should be as dry as possible and sandy rather than clayey.
Better dry than too wet
Basically, head cuttings of Euphorbia trigona root relatively quickly and easily under suitable conditions. However, the planters containing the cuttings should be kept relatively dry during the first few weeks and not watered too frequently. When propagating cuttings, the triangular spurge is also suitable for the warm and rather dry windowsill, where other plant species could only be rooted with limited success.
Tip
As a substrate for growing the cuttings, you can either use ready-made cactus or succulent soil from specialist retailers, or mix loose soil with sand and gravel.
