Euphorbia - Obesa aka Baseball Plant
The Euphorbia obesa, often called the "baseball plant," is a fascinating and unique succulent.
Characteristics:
Appearance:
It's known for its distinctive spherical shape, resembling a baseball.
The stem is typically segmented with 8 (sometimes more) vertical ribs.
Its color is usually a mottled gray-green, often with purplish or brownish bands.
It lacks spines, which sets it apart from many other succulents.
It is a dioecious plant meaning that there are seperate male and female plants.
Size:
It typically grows to about 20 cm in height and 9 cm in diameter.
Origin:
Native to the Great Karoo region of South Africa.
Conservation Status:
It's considered a rare and protected plant due to over-collection in the wild. It is on the CITES Appendix II.
Cultivation:
Light:
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
Can tolerate some direct sun, but avoid intense afternoon sun.
Watering:
Requires minimal watering.
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Water sparingly in the summer and keep it dry in the winter.
Soil:
Needs well-draining soil, such as a succulent or cactus mix.
Temperature:
Prefers warm temperatures and is not frost-tolerant.
Propagation:
Primarily propagated from seeds.
It is possible to pollinate the plants by hand, using a small brush, to transfer pollen from the male plants to the female plants.
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.
*** Due to this species being grown from seed specific varieties cannot be accurately identified and named. An assortment of varieties are available and will be sent at random.
