What it is: This listing is a large plant sold as Euphorbia lactea (mottled spurge, also called candelabra cactus or dragon bones).

Light: Give it full sun to part shade in a well-drained mix such as our succulent and cacti soil (NC State Extension). In our dark northern Alberta winters, a grow bulb in a lamp helps.

Watering & care: Allow the mix to dry after watering; water more consistently in summer so it does not stay bone-dry, and water less in winter (NC State Extension). It cannot tolerate wet soil (NC State Extension).

Humidity: Average household humidity is fine; University of Wisconsin Extension notes crown of thorns does well in the dry air of heated northern homes, and the same usually suits other potted euphorbias.

Temperature: Keep it in typical indoor temperatures and off cold windows. These are not frost-hardy houseplants; NC State Extension treats several of these species as outdoor plants only in very warm climates, and African milk tree should be brought in before temperatures drop below about 7 °C (45 °F) (NC State Extension).

Winter indoors: In winter, water less often and keep it off cold glass, in your brightest window or under a grow light.

Expected indoor size: NC State Extension says mottled spurge is typically maintained as a 0.3–0.6 m (1–2 ft) houseplant, though the species can grow much larger (the same profile lists up to about 4.6 m / 15 ft). How large yours gets depends on light, pot size and care.

Feeding: Feed sparingly with our Cactus Fertilizer during the growing season, and ease off in winter. The Royal Horticultural Society suggests a dilute low-nitrogen feed monthly in the growing season for potted Euphorbia obesa; other succulent euphorbias likewise do better with light feeding than with a heavy dose.

Pets & pests: Toxic: NC State Extension lists mottled spurge as low-severity poisonous, and says all parts of the plant are poisonous. The milky sap can cause mild to severe skin irritation and can temporarily or permanently damage the cornea if it gets in the eyes. If eaten, it can blister the lips and mouth. Wear gloves when handling or pruning it, and keep it out of reach of pets and children. The stems are also sharply spined. Watch for aphids, mealybugs and mites (NC State Extension).

About your plant: Every plant is a little different. Size, fullness and leaf count vary from plant to plant and change with age and light, so we can't promise a particular plant size, branching or colour. The size option (10") refers to the pot diameter. It does not guarantee an exact plant size or branching. Photos show typical plants from our greenhouse, not the specific plant you will receive. The shared gallery image shows other Euphorbia as inspiration. Options marked NO SHIP can't be shipped, but are available for pickup or local delivery.