Devil's Backbone
Euphorbia tithymaloides 'Red Edge'
Red Edge
About this plant
Euphorbia tithymaloides, commonly called Devil's Backbone, is a unique-looking succulent with zigzagging stems and small green leaves edged in red. It produces small greenish flowers and is often grown as an ornamental plant. The plant's sap is milky and can irritate skin. It is drought-tolerant and adapts well to indoor and outdoor settings in warm climates.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Euphorbia
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Malpighiales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Central America, Caribbean
- Distribution
- Native to Central America and the Caribbean; widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-26 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining potting mix, cactus or succulent soil
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is less active.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, diluted fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows.
This plant is tough and easy to care for. It prefers bright light and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root problems, so let the soil dry out between waterings. It needs little maintenance and is good for beginners.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Zigzag stems with red-edged green leaves, small greenish flowers, unique form
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
The plant's sap is toxic and can cause skin irritation or eye damage. Keep away from children and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Euphorbia tithymaloides can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people due to its milky sap. Avoid touching the sap and wash your hands if contact occurs. People sensitive to plant latex or sap should handle it carefully.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot. Low light may make the plant leggy. Sap can irritate skin if touched.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its unique zigzag stems and colorful foliage. Sometimes used in landscaping in warm climates.
Notes
Wear gloves when pruning or handling to avoid sap contact. Prune to maintain shape and remove leggy growth. Repot every 2-3 years if grown in containers.