Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' 7712

The White Ghost cactus, scientifically known as Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost', is a striking cultivar in the Euphorbiaceae family. Native to tropical Asia, this drought-adapted succulent has been selectively bred for its pale, almost ghostly white stems with subtle green striping. In its natural habitat, the species grows as a tall, branching shrub in dry, rocky terrain. This is a beginner-friendly plant that tolerates neglect remarkably well. Fun fact: despite being called a cactus, it's actually a euphorbia that produces a milky latex sap when cut, which is how the species earned its "lactea" name.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This euphorbia grows upright with thick, ridged stems that branch from the base in a candelabra pattern. The stems are triangular or four-angled in cross-section with small spines along the edges. What makes the White Ghost so distinctive is its creamy white to pale green colouration with faint vertical striping. The surface has a smooth, waxy texture that helps it retain moisture. As the plant matures, it develops a sculptural, architectural form that can reach impressive heights indoors.
FLOWER DETAILS
Euphorbia lactea produces small, inconspicuous flowers called cyathia that appear along the stem ridges during warm months. The flowers are tiny, yellowish-green structures without showy petals, and they lack fragrance. While the blooms aren't the main attraction, they add a subtle ornamental touch when they appear. Flowering is unpredictable indoors and depends heavily on the plant receiving enough bright light and experiencing a slight temperature drop in winter. To encourage blooming, provide maximum light exposure and allow the plant to experience cooler nights during the dormant season. Most growers appreciate this euphorbia primarily for its architectural stem structure rather than its flowers.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright indirect to full sun. Needs 6-8 hours of bright light daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun.
💧 Water: Water deeply when soil is completely dry, roughly every 2-3 weeks in summer, monthly in winter. Check by poking finger 2 inches into soil. Bottom watering or thorough top watering both work well.
🌡️ Humidity: Thrives in low humidity, 30-50% ideal. Tolerates average home conditions without issue.
🪴 Soil: Fast-draining cactus or succulent mix. Add extra perlite or coarse sand if needed for drainage.
🏺 Potting: Terracotta or unglazed ceramic pot with drainage holes. Pot should be slightly larger than root ball. Repot every 2-3 years in spring.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate to fast. Can grow 6-12 inches per year with good light. Can reach 5-6 feet indoors at maturity.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly during spring and summer with diluted cactus fertilizer. No feeding in fall and winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: No. Toxic to cats and dogs. The milky sap can cause skin and eye irritation in humans and serious gastrointestinal upset if ingested by pets.
WHERE TO PUT IT
Place your White Ghost near a south or west-facing window where it can soak up plenty of light. It works beautifully as a statement piece in living rooms, home offices, or bright entryways. The architectural form looks stunning in modern, minimalist spaces or paired with other desert plants. Avoid placing it in dim corners, bathrooms with high humidity, or areas with cold drafts from windows or air conditioning. Keep it away from high-traffic areas where children or pets might brush against the spiny stems or break them and release the irritating sap.