Euphorbia Plant Propagation

Euphorbia species come in a wide number of shapes and colors.

The Euphorbia genus contains roughly 2000 species, according to the Ars Informatica Grow 'Em Plant Propagation Database. Most of them thrive in hot, arid climates where they have access to full sun, and they are propagated in a number of ways, including root cuttings.

Cuttings

Take cuttings from euphorbias using a sharp knife, and douse the wound with cold water afterwards to wash away the latex, which appears as a milky sap. Allow the cutting to dry out for a few days. Strip the leaves from the bottom inch or so of the cutting before sticking it into a cactus-growing medium.

Dusting

Before pressing the euphorbia cutting into the soil, dust it with a rooting hormone that is 0.1 percent naphthyl acetic acid. This helps the plant produce stronger, healthier roots.

Warning

Wear gloves when taking cuttings from euphorbia because the latex can produce skin irritation. Do not place the plant in direct sun before the euphorbia plant has a mature root system.

References

• International Euphorbia Society: Vegetative Propagation of Euphorbia
• Ars Informatica: Grow 'Em Plant Propagation Database: Euphorbia Succulent