Euphorbia ritchiei

Unusual. Armoured. Undeniably cool – a rare succulent with wild character.

Euphorbia ritchiei, also known as Monadenium ritchiei, is a rare and beautifully bizarre succulent native to the arid regions of Kenya. This species features thick, fleshy stems often covered in tubercles (wart-like growths) and arranged in a spiralling pattern, giving it a truly prehistoric, alien-like aesthetic. New growth often emerges with a flush of pink or reddish tones, and in the right conditions, it can even produce delicate, crown-like flowers from its stem tips.

Care Guide
Despite its unusual looks, this Euphorbia is low-maintenance and thrives on neglect:

• Light: Loves bright, indirect light to full sun. A south-facing windowsill or sunny conservatory is ideal.

• Watering: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Water sparingly, especially in winter. Overwatering can quickly lead to rot.

• Humidity: Prefers dry air – no misting needed. It thrives in typical household humidity or even lower.

• Temperature: Warmth-loving, ideally kept between 18–28°C. Not frost tolerant – bring indoors if kept outside during warmer months.

• Feeding: Feed lightly once every 6–8 weeks during the growing season with a cactus/succulent fertiliser.

• Soil: Use a fast-draining cactus/succulent mix with added grit or perlite. Ensure the pot has excellent drainage.

Best Placement in the Home
Perfect for a sunny shelf, succulent collection, or contemporary windowsill display. Its sculptural form suits minimalist, modern, or desert-inspired interiors.

Rarity & Ease
Very rare in cultivation, Euphorbia ritchiei is prized by succulent collectors for its otherworldly appearance and ease of care. It’s very beginner-friendly, provided you don’t overwater – making it a fantastic entry point into rare Euphorbias.

Caution: Like all Euphorbias, its sap is toxic and can irritate skin or eyes. Keep out of reach of pets and children, and wear gloves when handling if sensitive.