Full Sun Acclimatise gradually
Low Water Allow soil to dry
Part Shade Bright filtered light
Ideal for Pots Excellent feature plant
Up to 3m Mature height
Up to 1.5m Mature widthAvailable sizes and plant heights are an approximate guide only. Stock fluctuates through the season and other sizes may be available. All plant stock and sizes are approximate and subject to grower availability at the time of year. View our Pot Sizes Explained guide.
| Botanical Name | Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' |
|---|---|
| Common Names | White Ghost Euphorbia, Ghost Cactus, White Ghost Candelabra Spurge, White Ghost Mottled Spurge |
| Plant Type | Upright succulent shrub |
| Position | Full sun to part shade in a warm, frost-free position with excellent drainage |
| Mature Size | Up to 3m high x 1.5m wide in warm, frost-free conditions; usually kept considerably smaller in pots |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance. Protect from frost and prolonged wet conditions, and handle carefully around the spines and milky sap. |
| Pet Safety | Milky sap may cause irritation if chewed or ingested. |
Position & Potting
Grow White Ghost in full sun to part shade, choosing a bright position with protection from frost and prolonged rain. Pale stems can scorch if a plant is moved suddenly into intense sun, so increase exposure gradually and provide some protection from the harshest afternoon conditions. Use a free-draining cactus and succulent mix in a pot with generous drainage holes.
Watering
Water thoroughly, then allow the potting mix to dry before watering again. Check the soil rather than following a fixed schedule, as watering needs change with temperature, pot size and position. Keep the plant much drier during cool weather and never leave the pot standing in water.
Feeding & Maintenance
Apply a cactus and succulent fertiliser sparingly during the warmer growing months. Repot only when needed and support taller plants if they become top-heavy. Wear gloves and eye protection when pruning or repotting because damaged stems release irritating milky sap; use clean tools and avoid contact with skin and eyes.
| Flower Colour | Small yellow-tinged flowers; rarely seen in cultivation |
|---|---|
| Flowering Period | Flowering is uncommon and does not form a reliable seasonal display |
| Fruiting | Not generally seen in cultivation |
Due to Australian quarantine restrictions, this product cannot be sent to WA, NT or TAS.
Is White Ghost Euphorbia a cactus?
No. Its upright, spined stems give it a cactus-like appearance, but it is a succulent member of the Euphorbia family.
How much sun does White Ghost Euphorbia need?
It performs well in full sun to part shade. Introduce strong sun gradually, as the pale stems can mark or scorch when moved suddenly from a sheltered position into intense afternoon sun.
How often should I water White Ghost Euphorbia?
Allow the potting mix to dry between watering, then water thoroughly and let the excess drain away. Water much less frequently during cool weather.
Can White Ghost Euphorbia grow in a pot?
Yes. It is particularly well suited to pots and can remain much smaller than a plant grown in the ground. Choose a heavy, free-draining container as the plant becomes taller.
How large does White Ghost Euphorbia grow?
In warm, frost-free conditions it can eventually reach up to 3m high and around 1.5m wide. Container-grown plants are usually maintained at a considerably smaller size.
Can White Ghost Euphorbia tolerate frost?
No. Protect it from frost, cold wet soil and prolonged winter rain. In colder locations, grow it in a pot that can be moved to a bright, protected position.
Is White Ghost Euphorbia safe around pets?
No. The milky sap may cause irritation if chewed or ingested. Keep the plant out of reach and take care when handling damaged stems.
