Euphorbia Ritchiei: The Armoured Beauty for Your Plant Collection
🛡️ Euphorbia ritchiei: The Armored Beauty for Your Plant Collection
If you’re on the hunt for a bold, knight-like succulent that brings structure and style to any corner of your home or garden, meet Euphorbia ritchiei, also known as Monadenium ritchiei. With its thick stems, creamy green veins, and brilliant pink flowers, this plant is the ultimate fusion of toughness and elegance. ⚔️🌿
🌿 Botanical Profile
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Genus: Euphorbia (previously Monadenium)
- Height: Up to 40 cm (16 inches)
- Stems: Green, cylindrical with prominent conical tubercles
- Leaves: Fleshy, obovate with cream-colored veining
- Flowers: Bright pink cyathia, U-shaped and clustered near the tips
- Origin: Eastern Africa
✨ What Makes Euphorbia Ritchiei Special?
- Armoured texture: Bold tubercles make it look armoured, like a mini cactus warrior
- Compact clumps: Grows in thick, sculptural clusters
- Bright blooms: Pink cyathia add a colourful contrast to the green stems
- Versatile style: Pairs well with modern, industrial, or boho decor
🌞 Light Requirements
- Prefers bright, indirect light
- Can tolerate some direct morning sun
- Protect from harsh afternoon rays to avoid leaf scorch
💧 Watering Tips
- Drought-tolerant, but appreciates moderate watering during active growth
- Use the "soak and dry" method
- Reduce watering significantly in winter
- Avoid letting water sit in the stem crown to prevent rot
🪴 Soil & Potting
- Use well-draining soil (cactus/succulent mix + pumice or perlite)
- Always use pots with drainage holes
- Terracotta pots are ideal for breathability
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
- Thrives in 15–30°C (59–86°F)
- Not frost-tolerant: bring indoors if temps drop below 10°C (50°F)
- Prefers low to moderate humidity
🧴 Fertilizer Tips
- Feed monthly during spring and summer with diluted succulent fertilizer
- No feeding needed during dormancy
🌱 Propagation
- Best propagated through stem cuttings
- Allow cut end to callous for a few days
- Plant in dry, sandy soil and water sparingly until roots form
⚠️ Toxicity Notice
Like many Euphorbias, Euphorbia Ritchiei's sap is toxic and can irritate skin and eyes.
- Always wear gloves when handling or pruning
- Keep out of reach of pets and children
🛋️ Styling Inspiration
- Statement succulent: Pair with bold ceramics or stone planters
- Desk buddy: Small enough to thrive on a shelf or office table
- Terrarium-friendly: Works well in open, arid terrariums with proper airflow
🚀 Final Thoughts
Euphorbia ritchiei is a hidden gem in the succulent world — easy to grow, visually striking, and perfect for succulent lovers who want something out of the ordinary. If you're ready to level up your plant corner with a tough yet elegant species, this armoured beauty is your perfect pick. 🛡️💖
🛒 Where to Buy Euphorbia Ritchiei?
Looking to bring this spiky superstar home? Shop here