Euphorbia mammillaris (Corncob Cactus)
Corncob Cactus, Corncob Euphorbia, Corn Cob Plant, Indian Corn Cob
Euphorbia mammillaris (Corncob Cactus) is a short-stemmed, dioecious shrublet producing a dense cluster. The chalky green stems, up to 14 in. tall (35 cm), are thick, erect, and ribbed. Thick, blunt spines are occasionally present and scattered around the stems. Usually, there are many club-like lateral branches. From late winter to early summer, Corncob Cactus produces yellow flowers that are reduced in size and aggregated into a cluster (cyathium) at the tip of each stem. Relatively fast-growing, drought tolerant, and long-lived once established.
- Typically grows up to 10-14 in. tall (25-35 cm). It requires a little pampering to become established, but once it is, it is self-sufficient.
- Performs best in full sun in well-drained soils. Can tolerate moderate shade. Water regularly during the active growing season. No water should ever be allowed to stand around the roots. Keep almost completely dry in winter. Protect from strong winds.
- Perfect addition to beds, borders, and Mediterranean Gardens.
- No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for mealy bugs.
- Can be pruned for shape and branching.
- Propagate by cuttings in late spring to summer.
- Native to South Africa.
- All Euphorbias contain a white sap that can be irritating to the eyes and mucous membranes. If contact is made with this white sap, take care to not touch your face or eyes before washing your hands with soap and water.
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Requirements
Hardiness | 9
– 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Cactus - Succulents |
Plant Family | Euphorbia - Spurges |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Early,Mid,Late) Summer (Early,Mid,Late) Fall Winter |
Height | 10" – 2' (25cm – 60cm) |
Water Needs | Low |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy |
Tolerance | Deer, Drought, Rabbit, Dry Soil, Rocky Soil |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders |
Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden, Mediterranean Garden |
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While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
Requirements
Hardiness | 9
– 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Cactus - Succulents |
Plant Family | Euphorbia - Spurges |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Early,Mid,Late) Summer (Early,Mid,Late) Fall Winter |
Height | 10" – 2' (25cm – 60cm) |
Water Needs | Low |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy |
Tolerance | Deer, Drought, Rabbit, Dry Soil, Rocky Soil |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders |
Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden, Mediterranean Garden |