Balkan spurge Euphorbia oblongata

Water

Gopher Spurge should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically once a week, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions. Gradually add water until it begins to drain from the bottom of the pot, ensuring the plant is not left in standing water. On average, this might equate to around 16-32 ounces for a medium-sized pot every watering session. During the winter months, reduce watering frequency as the plant enters a dormant phase.

Light

Gopher Spurge thrives in full sun to partial shade, so place it in a spot where it receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. It can tolerate bright, indirect light but its growth may not be as robust. The best spot for this plant is near a south-facing window or in a garden that receives plenty of morning light and some afternoon shade.

Temperature

Gopher Spurge prefers temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and can survive minimum temperatures of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range promotes healthy growth. However, avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit as it could damage the plant or even be fatal.

Pruning

Pruning Gopher Spurge is important to maintain its shape and to encourage bushier growth. Prune the plant in early spring before new growth starts, removing any damaged or overgrown stems. Pruning can be done annually or as needed to control the size of the plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Euphorbia oblongata, commonly known as the Gopher Spurge, thrives in a well-draining soil mix with some organic matter, such as a blend of loam, sand, and peat. The ideal soil pH for Gopher Spurge should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Gopher Spurge should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate the growth of the plant. Care should be taken when handling the plant due to its sap, which can be irritating to the skin and eyes.

Humidity & Misting

Gopher Spurge prefers average to dry humidity conditions. It is quite tolerant of low humidity environments, making it suitable for indoor settings where humidity levels are moderate.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Gopher Spurge in bright light, avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sunny spot, well-draining soil, protect from cold.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

Euphorbia oblongata, commonly known as the oblong spurge, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate, typically in the warmth of late spring after the last frost. The seedlings emerge with characteristic paired leaves and gradually develop into mature plants with oblong, green to bluish-green foliage. During its vegetative stage, oblong spurge establishes a strong root system and develops a branching stem structure. Upon reaching maturity, the plant produces small greenish-yellow flowers surrounded by specialized leaves called bracts, typically in late spring or early summer. After pollination, which is often facilitated by insects, the plant forms seed capsules that eventually dry and release seeds for the next generation. Euphorbia oblongata is a perennial herb, so once established, it can survive for several years, entering a period of dormancy during the winter and resuming growth in spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Summer

• Propogation: The common name for Euphorbia oblongata is Spurge, and it is most popularly propagated by seed. This is usually carried out in the spring, providing the warmth needed for germination. To propagate by seed, sow them thinly onto the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix and gently press the seeds into the soil for good contact but do not cover them, as light aids the germination process. Maintain moisture without waterlogging, and provide a steady temperature between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (about 18 to 24 degrees Celsius). Seedlings often appear within two to three weeks and should be carefully transplanted into individual pots once they are large enough to handle.