Euphorbia lactea ‘Variegata’, often nicknamed the Dragon Bones Tree, Mottled Spurge, or Variegated Candelabra Cactus (though not a true cactus), is a striking succulent shrub belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. Native to India and Sri Lanka, it is highly prized for its sculptural form and vivid variegation.

The stems are triangular to rhomboid in cross-section, with prominent ridges lined by short spines. In the variegated form, the stems are marbled with creamy white, pink, and green, often flushed with rosy hues under strong light. Mature plants can form tall, branching candelabra-like structures, while cultivated specimens are frequently grafted into ornamental fan shapes.

Indoors, this Euphorbia is often grown as a container specimen, appreciated for its bold architectural appeal and colourful marbling. Outdoors in tropical climates, it can reach several metres tall.

Euphorbia lactea ‘Variegata’ – Care Guide

Light

Requires very bright light, ideally full sun indoors or outdoors. Place near a south-facing window or in a conservatory to maintain strong variegation and compact growth.

Watering

Water sparingly. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings. In summer, this may mean watering every 2–3 weeks; in winter, reduce to once a month or less. Overwatering is the most common cause of problems, often leading to rot.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers warmth, 18–28°C. Must be protected from frost and should not be exposed below 10°C.

• Humidity: Adapted to dry conditions – thrives in average household humidity and does not require misting.

Soil and Potting

Use a very free-draining cactus or succulent compost, ideally amended with sand, perlite, or pumice. Repot every 2–3 years in spring, using a pot with drainage holes.

Feeding

Apply a diluted cactus fertiliser once a month during spring and summer. Feeding is not necessary in autumn and winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Minimal pruning is needed – remove only damaged or misshapen branches. Always wear gloves when handling, as the plant exudes a toxic white latex sap when cut.

Growth and Maturity

A slow-growing species, usually reaching 30–60 cm tall as a container plant indoors, though in warm climates it can grow several metres outdoors. Fan-grafted specimens stay smaller and highly decorative.

Common Issues

• Yellowing or mushy stems: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Leggy growth: Insufficient light.

• Pests: Occasionally mealybugs or scale insects.

Background and Benefits

Euphorbia lactea ‘Variegata’ is one of the most collectable Euphorbias due to its dramatic variegation and unusual form. It is often used in xeriscaping in hot climates, but as a houseplant it makes an excellent sculptural specimen for modern interiors. Its vivid marbling of cream, pink, and green ensures it stands out as a living piece of art.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Full sun or very bright indoors

• Water: Very sparingly; allow soil to dry fully

• Temperature: 18–28°C; protect below 10°C

• Humidity: Low to average

• Soil: Gritty, free-draining succulent mix

• Feed: Monthly in spring/summer

• Growth: Sculptural branching succulent; variegated stems marbled in cream, green, and pink