Expert: Greg Simpson - 1/7/2006

Question
Hi Greg,

Could you please advise what kind of cactus this is?  http://home.new.rr.com/dragoo/ .  It was given to me by a friend who said the cuttings came from a very large indoor cactus.  I am concerned because the thorns are black and the thorn base is black and brown.  I really want to keep it alive and thriving but not sure how to do that.  Your advise would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Dear Carrie,

This is not a cactus, but rather a Euphorbia, specifically Euphorbia Lactea. I have attached a website that will give you some additional care information. The plant pictured on the website is a variation of your plant called "White Ghost", but the care is the same for both plants.

http://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Euphorbiaceae/Euphorbia_lactea.html

Euphorbias are easy to care for, just don't over water. They also don't take heat very well (like in the Phoenix area where I'm at). Good luck, hope this helps!

Sincerely,

Greg