Variegated Devil's Backbone Euphorbia - Zig-Zag Succulent Shrub

Introduce a uniquely sculptural specimen to your plant collection with the Variegated Devil's Backbone Euphorbia (Euphorbia tithymaloides Variegated). Also known as Jacob's Ladder or Redbird Flower, this colorful succulent shrub truly lives up to its playful nickname. Its delightfully crooked, zig-zag stems create a wild, rebellious look that captures attention. Adding to its exotic form, the small, pointed leaves boast stunning variegation in shades of chartreuse, yellow, and cream, vividly highlighting their edges. As an extra appeal, during the cooler winter months, these leaf edges can take on a beautiful pink hue, providing a delightful seasonal color change. While it can develop tiny red flowers on the growing tips in spring, they often don’t bloom in typical indoor cultivation. This resilient and visually intriguing plant is perfect for adding bold character and sculptural beauty to any sunny space.

Important Note

Variegated Devil's Backbone (like other Euphorbia species) contains a milky white sap that can be irritating to skin and is toxic if ingested. Please handle with care and keep out of reach of children and pets.

Key Features

• Distinctive Zig-Zag Stems: Features delightfully crooked, zig-zag stems that give it a uniquely sculptural and eye-catching form.
• Vibrant Variegated Foliage: Displays small, pointed leaves with beautiful variegation in shades of chartreuse, yellow, and cream, highlighting their edges.
• Seasonal Pink Hues: The leaf edges can take on a lovely pink hue in cooler winter months, adding dynamic seasonal interest.
• Colorful Succulent Shrub: A colorful, succulent shrub that makes a fantastic, low-maintenance centerpiece specimen.
• Exotic & Rebellious Look: Its wild, rebellious look and exotic form make it a standout addition to any plant collection.

Care Tips

• Light: Thrives in bright, direct sunlight to bright indirect light. Ample light is essential to maintain its vibrant variegation and compact growth.
• Water: As a succulent, it prefers periods of dryness. Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, then allow excess water to drain. Avoid extended periods of extreme dryness, which can cause leaf drop.
• Soil: Requires a well-draining, light potting mix. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal to prevent root rot.
• Humidity: Tolerates average household humidity.
• Feeding: Fertilize sparingly every 2-4 weeks during the spring and summer growing seasons with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce or stop feeding in fall and winter.
• Temperature: Prefers average room temperatures, ideally between 18-29°C (65-85°F). Protect from cold temperatures.
• Pruning: Can be pruned to maintain shape or encourage bushier growth. Be cautious of the sap when pruning.