Euphorbia decaryi

🌿 Euphorbia decaryi, commonly known as Zigzag Plant, is a striking succulent from the Euphorbiaceae family native to Madagascar. This beginner-friendly plant thrives in rocky, arid landscapes where it develops its characteristic wavy stems. It's a perfect choice for those new to succulents who want something unique without the fuss of high-maintenance care. Fun fact: the zigzag growth pattern of its stems is an adaptation that helps the plant maximize sun exposure while minimizing water loss in its harsh native habitat.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This succulent grows with a low, spreading habit that forms dense mats over time. The stems follow a distinctive zigzag pattern, creating visual interest even when the plant isn't flowering. Leaves are small, oval-shaped, and grey-green in colour with a slightly fuzzy texture. The compact foliage hugs the stems tightly, giving the whole plant a sculptural appearance that looks intentional and artistic.
FLOWER DETAILS
Euphorbia decaryi produces small cyathia (specialized flower structures) that are yellow-green in colour and cup-shaped. The flowers don't have a noticeable fragrance but offer subtle visual appeal against the grey-green foliage. Blooming typically occurs in spring and summer when the plant receives adequate light and warmth. To encourage flowering, provide bright light conditions and slightly reduce watering during the cooler months to mimic the natural dry season it experiences in Madagascar.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright indirect to full sun. Requires 6-8 hours of bright light daily for best growth and colour
💧 Water: Water deeply but infrequently. During spring and summer, water when soil is completely dry (every 2-3 weeks). In fall and winter, reduce to once monthly. Use the soak-and-dry method, allowing water to drain completely
🌡️ Humidity: Low humidity preferred, 30-40% is ideal. Tolerates typical dry indoor conditions well
🪴 Soil: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand for improved drainage
🏺 Potting: Shallow terracotta or clay pots work best. Use a pot 1-2 inches wider than the root ball. Repot every 2-3 years in spring
🌱 Growth rate: Slow to moderate. Spreads 2-4 inches over 6 months, reaches 4-6 inches in a year. Maximum mature size is 12-18 inches wide and 4-6 inches tall
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly during spring and summer with diluted cactus fertilizer at half strength. No fertilizer needed in fall and winter
🐾 Pet friendly: No. Toxic to cats and dogs. The milky sap can cause irritation and gastrointestinal upset if ingested, and may irritate skin and eyes on contact
WHERE TO PUT IT
Place your Zigzag Plant on south or west-facing windowsills, bright desks, or sunny shelves where it can soak up plenty of light. It works well in living rooms, home offices, or bedrooms with ample natural light. The low, spreading form makes it ideal for wide, shallow decorative bowls or dish gardens. Avoid placing it in bathrooms, kitchens, or other high-humidity areas. Keep it away from pets and children due to its toxic sap, and don't position it in low-light corners or north-facing windows where it will stretch and lose its compact form.
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