BellinaMy Euphorbia abdelkuri Story: A Tale of Two Weird and Wacky Beauties
I’ve always been drawn to strange and fascinating plants, and Euphorbia abdelkuri quickly became a standout in my collection. When I first saw it on Thang’s pre-order inventory list, I didn’t hesitate. I secured my first plant almost exactly a year ago. That plant, a regular non-variegated E. abdelkuri, was a dull green but deeply intriguing in form. Then, earlier this spring, I ordered a second one: a fully variegated pink version. It was vibrant, alien-like, and, unlike the first, absolutely needed to be grafted.
Grafting is essential for the pink variety since it lacks chlorophyll and can’t support itself. The green grafting stock does all the heavy lifting, rooting, nutrient uptake, and photosynthesis, allowing the pink top to grow rapidly. In fact, this pink specimen has already started branching, which is a very exciting sign. Meanwhile, my original green plant has stayed the same for a whole year, but I know it’s alive. I use the touch test: when the plant feels stiff, it’s hydrated. When it feels soft, it needs water.
I water the regular one based solely on this feel method, with no fixed schedule. In contrast, the pink grafted plant, thanks to its faster growth and higher nutrient demand, gets watered every 2 to 3 weeks now that it’s summer. It’s still relatively new to my collection, so I’m continuing my “field tests” to better understand its growth habits and water needs.
One of the best parts of Thang’s pre-orders is the local pickup option. Though he does ship Canada wide, if you’re in the area, his pre-order sales on Facebook are absolutely worth checking out. They usually happen in the warmer months when it’s safe to ship.
These two plants perfectly represent what I love most: the weird and the wacky. Euphorbias are a genus I’ve really come to admire. They’re endlessly diverse in form, color, and growth habit. They thrive in my home thanks to its southwest exposure, which provides lots of direct sunlight. If you don’t have natural light, I recommend investing in grow lights. High light is key for these plants.
All of my plants get a touch of fertilizer with every watering, which I find to be a solid strategy for supporting steady growth. I also prefer growing plants that enjoy the same atmosphere I do: warm, sunny, and bright. Low-light or cool-loving plants don’t seem to last long with me. Highlight plants are my style, and Euphorbia abdelkuri, especially in pink, is the perfect fit.
My Summary & Care Guide: Euphorbia abdelkuri Variegated and Non-Variegated
Euphorbia abdelkuri care tips:
Light: Full sun to bright light. Use grow lights if needed.
Water: Let soil dry completely. Use the “feel test” for non-grafted plants.
Variegated types: Must be grafted. Water every 2–3 weeks in summer.
Fertilizer: Add a diluted balanced fertilizer with each watering.
Environment: Warm, dry, and bright conditions preferred.
Quick Tip: Pink variegated Euphorbia abdelkuri grows faster and branches more when grafted, but requires more attentive care. Regular green types are slow growers but resilient and low-maintenance. Both are perfect for collectors who love the unique and bizarre
