Plant of the day is: Euphorbia aeruginosa or Miniature Saguaro

Plant of the day is: Euphorbia aeruginosa or Miniature Saguaro

So let me start out by saying that the common name is just absolutely awful.  First, it looks nothing like a Saguaro.  Second, Euphorbia is the type genus for the Euphorbiaceae family.  A Saguaro is a member of the Cactus or Cactaceae family.

The Euphorbiaceae and Cactaceae family have very similar evolutionary strategies but originated in very different part of the world.  Cacti are generally found in the Americas and Euphorbias are found in Africa.

I've always been a little bit of a sucker for a good Euphorbia, they've come up with some bloody brilliant forms and strategies.  In terms of a plant that I will try to get in my home at some point, this little one is very high on my list.

Range:  This particular species is found in South Africa and Zimbabwe.  It likes dry places, very dry places.

Description:  The specific epithet aeruginosa means: deep blue green in reference to its lovely colored stems.  The spines of the plant are an almost maroon color, a very striking contrast against the stem.  Its flowers are yellow...kind of.  Technically the flowers are cyathia or "false flowers" check it out.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyathium

Culture:  Cactus/succulent mixes/lava rock/rocks etc. etc.  Treat as a cactus.

Fun fact:  Leaves lose a lot of water.  Solution:  Photosynthetic stems.  Yeah, that works too.

Enjoy.

 And the habit.

 I don't want one this large :).