This evergreen cactus-like succulent has impressive silvery grey limbs with long pointed spikes. When grown properly, the leafless shrub is turned into a great ornamental masterpiece. Silver Thicket is definitely a must-have plant for the most cactus enthusiasts.
Who doesn’t want to be a proud owner of a curiously different looking house plant? But it is not always easy to find one. Again, the harder part is to keep it alive. In such cases, cacti or succulents could be a great choice since they require relatively less care. They continue to grow and thrive under occasional maintenance and watering.
But if you like to amaze others then you will be going to need something different. While searching for such an amazing indoor plant I was able to locate a curiously gorgeous succulent that resembles a cactus. The gardener told me that may be it is a type of cactus but he doesn’t know its name. Who cares for a name when the plant itself is unique and beautiful? So I bought it without asking any further questions.
It was already potted and I was concerned about its safety. But I couldn't take good care of it without knowing its name and category. So I started Googling, and after putting much effort I was able to figure out its name.
About this plant
The plant is commonly known as Silver Thicket and it originates from Madagascar. It chiefly grows in subtropical or tropical dry forests. Moreover, this plant is also found in subtropical dry rocky areas. Its scientific name is Euphorbia stenoclada.
Tips for the caring of Silver Thicket
Well, cacti grow well when they are left carelessly. That very truth is also applicable for this plant as well. As it falls under Euphorbia genus, it will grow without needing any special care. However, you can’t either ignore your plant altogether. Let’s see what you can do to keep it alive and healthier:
Water Requirements
This succulent is drought resistant. Water should not be allowed strangled around its roots. Since it’s a forest cactus, it is not long-term drought resistant. It will need a bit more watering compared to other desert cacti, especially during its growing seasons, i.e., the summer. However, limit the watering twice in a month. But if you are planning for a thorough watering then restrict it to once in a month.
But the watering should be infrequent and partial soaking. Be sure to inspect the soil moisture before watering. Water only when the soil looks dry several inches below the surface. Quite bothersome, huh!
This plant is dormant in winter so keep it completely dry at or around 10°C.
Lighting Requirements
This plant needs lots of sunlight to develop. However, as it can grow in partial shade as well, it can be used as an indoor plant. But remember, this plant cannot withstand direct sunlight at a very young age. So to avoid sunburn it should not be suddenly placed under direct sunlight. Lastly, keeping it permanently under shade the shade might cause a complete stoppage of its growth.
Potting & Soil
Silver Thicket must be planted in well-drained soil. Even frequent raining will not kill it if water does not remain stagnant around its roots. Long –term water accumulation will rot its root. A fusion of 1/2 of coarse sand and 1/2 of disinfected regular garden soil is ideal for this plant.
While choosing pots try plastic tubs as they will capture less moisture and the soil will remain much dryer. But make sure to choose a pot having lots of holes for easy water discharge.
The tub size doesn’t matter; succulents are comfortable growing root bounded.
Cold Tolerance
It is not a frost or freeze tolerant plant. So keep it indoor during the freezing days of winter.
Toxicity
Just like other members of the genus, this plant also releases a milky sap when physically damaged or cut. The sap, which is called latex is toxic and may cause skin irritation or allergic reaction. And temporary blindness may occur if it gets inside the eyes. Ingestion of the latex could also entail poisonous reaction. So seeing a doctor is necessary after confronting any of such circumstances.
Did you know?
This plant blooms flowers only when planted directly in the soil. You can’t expect to have flowers from a potted Silver Thicket.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Silver Thicket
- Category: Shrub/cactus/ succulent
- Scientific Name: Euphorbia stenoclada
- Synonym: Euphorbia cirsioides, Euphorbia insulae-europae
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Genus: Euphorbia
- Origin: Madagascar
- Evergreen: Yes
- Growth Rate: Moderately fast
- Growing Season: Summer
- Bloom Time: Spring
- Flower Color: Red
- Dormant Time: Winter
- Height: 6-12 feet
- Width: 4-6 feet
- Exposure: Full Sun, partial shade
- Drought Tolerant: Yes
- Water Needs: Low
- Frost Tolerant: No
- Toxicity: Poisonous
- Humidity: Prefers dry environment
- Temperature: Prefers warm environment
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