Euphorbia guillauminiana is a rare and highly prized succulent endemic to Northwestern Madagascar. It is specifically found in the Sofia region, near Analalava. Named after the French botanist André Guillaumin, it is a protected species listed under CITES Appendix II due to its extremely slow growth rate and limited geographical range in the wild.
Habitat
In its natural environment, this species inhabits dry, deciduous forests and rocky shrublands. It typically grows on basaltic rocks or in well-drained, silty soils at low altitudes (near sea level to 200 meters). The habitat is characterized by a long, harsh dry season and a short monsoon period. The plant has evolved to withstand intense heat and drought by storing moisture in its thick, woody stems.
Description
Euphorbia guillauminiana is often referred to as a "living sculpture" due to its dense, crown-like branching and formidable spination.
Growth Habit (Cutting): While seed-grown specimens naturally develop a thick, globose basal caudex, cuttings of this species typically grow into a branched, shrubby form. Over time, the base of the cutting will lignify (become woody), creating a rugged, miniature tree-like aesthetic that is highly favored for "Mame" or "Shohin" bonsai styles.
Stems & Spines: The stems are thick, cylindrical, and grayish-brown. They are densely covered with persistent, sharp, and stiff stipular spines. These spines are arranged in an orderly fashion, giving the branches a "corny" or armored appearance.
Foliage: During the growing season, a lush cluster of bright green, oval leaves emerges at the very tips of the branches. The contrast between the delicate green leaves and the fierce, woody spines is the plant's most striking feature.
Flowers (Cyathia): It produces small, attractive yellowish-green flowers (cyathia) that are nestled among the leaves at the branch apices.
Cultivation: This is a slow-growing species that requires patience. It thrives in full sun to bright indirect light, which helps maintain its compact, "short-leaf" form. It requires a highly mineralized, fast-draining substrate and must be kept warm and dry during its winter dormancy.
All plants are shipped bare-root, without pots or soil.
To prevent excessive nutrient loss during international shipping, which may make it harder for the plant to recover, we usually trim the leaves before delivery. If you prefer the plant to be shipped without trimming, please contact me in advance.
Planting Instructions
Please collect the plants as soon as possible after arrival to avoid delays.
Open the package immediately upon receipt and replant. Do not place in direct sunlight; keep in a shaded or indirect light location for 2–3 days.
After the adaptation period, start watering and gradually transition the plant to direct sunlight.
Care Guide
Light: Requires plenty of light year-round, but avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature: Native to tropical arid–semi-arid climates; temperatures below 5°C (41°F) can cause frost damage.
Watering: Water moderately when the soil is 70% dry or completely dry. ○In the warm growing season: 1–2 times per week ○In the cooler dormant season: 2–3 times per month Adjust according to soil dryness and plant water uptake.
Soil: Best grown in well-draining soil; not demanding on soil type.
Fertilizing: Rarely needs fertilization; recommend using Osmocote A2 slow-release fertilizer once or twice a year.
Shipping Notice
After receiving your order, we require 3–5 days for leaf trimming, soil removal, and drying to ensure safe long-distance transport.
We ship via air freight; delivery time is usually 8–16 days.
During transit, plants may enter dormancy and appear shriveled, discolored, or reduced in size—this is normal. They will recover after proper care upon arrival.
(For Wholesale Orders) International Shipping
We can provide a phytosanitary certificate.
The certificate fee is not included in the plant price and will be charged separately. For most standard orders, the fee is typically USD 100.
After-Sales Reminder
Please record an unboxing video upon receipt.
If the plant arrives dead, contact us for a refund or replacement. You can purchase with confidence.
Payment
We accept payments from all major credit cards such as Payoneer, PayPal, VISA, Alipay, etc.
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