Euphorbia - Ankarensis

Euphorbia Ankarensis is a captivating succulent that resembles a miniature, gnarled tree. Its bulbous, often contorted caudex, a swollen base for water storage, anchors the plant, from which slender, finger-like stems ascend. These stems are sparsely adorned with tiny leaves and delicate spines, creating a unique, sculptural silhouette. This rare Madagascan native, often called the Madagascar Finger Tree, possesses a striking, almost otherworldly beauty, making it a prized specimen for collectors. However, its milky sap is toxic, requiring careful handling.

Key Characteristics:

• Origin:

  • Endemic to Madagascar, specifically found in rocky areas.

• Appearance:

  • It has a distinctive, sculptural form, often described as having a gnarled caudex (swollen base) that serves as a water storage organ.

  • From the caudex, slender, upright stems grow, adorned with small leaves and spines.

  • It is also known as the Madagascar Finger Tree, due to its finger like branches.

• Habitat:

  • Naturally found in rocky areas, particularly limestone outcrops (tsingy).

• Conservation Status:

  • It is considered an endangered species, primarily due to habitat loss.

• Flowers:

  • Produces small, inconspicuous yellowish flowers.

• Sap:

  • Like many Euphorbia species, it contains a milky sap that can be irritating to the skin, so caution is advised when handling.

Cultivation and Care:

• Light:

  • Prefers bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade. Avoid intense, direct sunlight, which can cause scorching.

• Watering:

  • Requires moderate watering during the growing season, with the soil allowed to dry out completely between waterings.

  • Watering should be reduced significantly during the winter months.

• Soil:

  • Needs well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix.

• Temperature:

  • It is a tender succulent and requires frost protection.

  • It prefers warm temperatures and should be kept above a minimum of 12°C (approximately 54°F).

• Growth:

  • It is a slow growing plant.

Important Notes:

• Toxicity:

  • Like other Euphorbia species, it contains a milky sap (latex) that can be irritating to the skin and eyes. Handle with care.  

* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.

** All plants will be posted bare rooted.