Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing
The Euphorbia lactea ‘Cristata’ (also known as the Coral Cactus or Crested Elkhorn) is a fascinating and unique plant. It’s actually a fusion of two different succulents, which is why it has such a strange, wave-like, “crested” shape.

Here is a guide to its care Euphorbia lactea Cristata :
Euphorbia lactea ‘Cristata’ (Coral Cactus) Care Guide
⚠️ Important Safety Note
Like all Euphorbia species, this plant produces a milky white sap (latex) when cut or broken. This sap is toxic and can cause skin irritation, and is especially harmful if it gets in the eyes. Always wear gloves when handling or pruning this plant, and keep it away from pets and children.
☀️ Light
- Bright, Indirect Light is Best: The plant thrives with plenty of light but should be protected from intense, direct midday or afternoon sun, which can cause the crested top to sun-scorch (turn brown/crispy).
- Indoors: A bright, south-, east-, or west-facing window works well.
- Acclimation: If moving it from a shadier spot to a very sunny one, do so gradually to prevent sunburn.
💧 Watering
- Use the “Soak and Dry” Method: Water thoroughly until it drains out the bottom, then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
- Growing Season (Spring/Summer): Water more frequently (but still only when dry).
- Dormancy (Fall/Winter): Drastically reduce watering. The plant is much more susceptible to root rot in cool, dark, and damp conditions.
- Overwatering is the biggest killer. If the plant turns yellow, brown, or mushy, it is likely overwatered.

🪴 Soil and Potting
- Soil: A fast-draining cactus and succulent mix is essential. You can improve drainage by mixing commercial soil with coarse sand, perlite, or pumice (aim for at least 50% inorganic material).
- Pot: Use a container with excellent drainage holes. Clay pots are great because they help wick away excess moisture from the soil.
- Repotting: Only repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant has significantly outgrown its pot, to refresh the soil. Do this during the warmer growing season.
🌡️ Temperature
- Warmth is Key: This tropical succulent prefers warm temperatures between and ( to ).
- Cold Tolerance: It is not frost-hardy and should not be exposed to temperatures below () for extended periods. Bring it indoors well before the first sign of cold weather.
🍽️ Fertilizer
- Fertilize sparingly. Use a diluted, low-nitrogen fertilizer (like a cactus or succulent formula) once a month during the active growing season (spring and summer).
- Do not fertilize in the fall or winter.

✂️ Maintenance
- The crested top grows slowly and does not require pruning.
- Sometimes, the rootstock (the straight green stem below the crested part) will try to sprout a non-crested branch. If you see this, you can prune it off at the base to ensure the plant focuses energy on the desired crested form. Remember to wear gloves!
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