Love tree - Synadenium spurge · Euphorbia umbellata

Botanical name

Euphorbia umbellata

Plant family

Euphorbiaceae

Identification

Species

Growth and life cycle

You are growing a perennial shrub with fleshy stems. It can develop into a small tree and stay green in warm conditions. The white sap is toxic and irritates the skin and eyes, so keep it away from children and pets.

Choosing a pot

Choose a stable pot with drainage holes that can support the tall plant without tipping over. When the roots fill the pot, move to a container that is only slightly larger so that a large amount of wet potting mix does not remain around them.

Light

Depends on the variety and location

When to water

Before watering, check with your finger that the potting mix is dry several cm down and that the pot feels lighter. Water until water comes out of the drainage holes, then empty the saucer or decorative outer pot. Yellowing leaves and a soft base when the mix is wet may indicate too much water. Drooping leaves with dry mix and a light pot may indicate too little.

Potting mix and drainage

Choose an airy potting mix that drains quickly, with added perlite or pumice. Make sure the drainage holes are open and the pot is not sitting in water.

Feeding

Fertilize when the plant is growing new leaves and branches, usually in spring and summer. When growth stops, or the plant is stressed by too little or too much water, hold off on fertilizing.

Pruning and tidying

You can shorten long branches during active growth to encourage branching, and leave healthy branches that build the shape you want. Wear gloves and safety glasses when pruning, avoid contact with the sap, and clean your tools afterward.

The first few days at home

Remove the wrapping and check that the drainage holes are open. Choose a bright spot out of reach of children and pets, and check the potting mix before watering. Keep the plant in its current pot if the roots are not crowded, and do not move it straight into strong sunlight.

What to watch for

If you see branches stretching out and leaves spaced far apart, check whether the plant needs more light. Pale, dry patches after a move into sunlight may be scorch marks. Leaf drop can come from cold or a change in conditions, but a soft, dark base in wet potting mix calls for a check for rot.

Placement and climate

Indoors, choose a bright spot away from air-conditioning drafts and hot glass. On a balcony, gradually get the plant used to summer sun and keep air moving, even in the coastal plain's humidity. In winter, protect it from cold and frost, and move a pot exposed to rain under cover if the potting mix stays wet.

Propagation

You can propagate from branch cuttings once the cut has dried, but because the sap is toxic, it is better to get help from someone experienced rather than try it at home without protective equipment.

Around pets

We haven’t verified whether this plant is safe around pets. Ask us before choosing.

Care level

Needs regular attention

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