Hyssop-leaf sandmat (Euphorbia hyssopifolia)

Also known as: Hyssop spurge

Euphorbia hyssopifolia, commonly known as hyssop-leaf sandmat, is native to the southwestern United States. This desert-adapted plant belongs to the Euphorbia genus and features a distinctive milk-white sap in its stem. It is also referred to by various names, including hyssop spurge, eyebane, wart weed, and chicken weed.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Hyssop-leaf sandmat

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

20 cm to 4 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

0.5 mm

Flower Color

White Green

Images of Hyssop-leaf sandmat

Quickly Identify Hyssop-leaf sandmat

Opposite, serrated leaves with asymmetrical bases and reddish markings, around 1/2 inch long.

Smooth, branching stems up to 3 feet tall, reddish or yellowish, with milky sap.

Distinctive three-parted capsule fruit, under an inch long, with ridged texture and bumpy surface.

Small cyathia flowers in leaf axils with white bract-like leaves, roughly 0.1 inches across.

Wiry, branching form with oblong leaves, light green to reddish color, and milky sap when cut.

Scientific Classification of Hyssop-leaf sandmat

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Malpighiales

Family

Spurge

Genus

Spurges

Species

Hyssop-leaf sandmat

Planting and Growing of Hyssop-leaf sandmat

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Hyssop-leaf sandmat?

Euphorbia hyssopifolia requires a consistent yet moderate amount of water. Watering should be thorough enough to moisten the soil, but avoid leaving it soggy. Approximately 250 milliliters each time ensures adequate hydration without risk of root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Hyssop-leaf sandmat? ›

What should I do if my Hyssop-leaf sandmat is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Hyssop-leaf sandmat? ›

How to save an overwatered Hyssop-leaf sandmat? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Hyssop-leaf sandmat?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 3 to 6 hours daily

Partial sun, achieving balance between shade and sun exposure, ensures strong growth and vibrant health for Euphorbia hyssopifolia. Proper light levels enhance photosynthetic efficiency, thus supporting flowering and foliage vitality.

How much light does it need? ›

What can you do to provide ideal lighting? ›

Benefits of ideal lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Hyssop-leaf sandmat?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

For optimal growth of Euphorbia hyssopifolia, maintain a temperature range between 65°F and 75°F. This range ensures that the plant has the necessary warmth to thrive without the stress of excessive heat or cold. Providing stable temperatures within this range helps the plant perform essential functions such as photosynthesis and nutrient uptake efficiently.

What Soil is Best for Hyssop-leaf sandmat?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Calcareous soil, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Euphorbia hyssopifolia thrives in well-drained soil which prevents waterlogging, aiding in root health and preventing diseases like root rot by allowing excess water to quickly escape. A soil high in organic matter supplements the plant's growth by constantly replenishing nutrients, fostering vigorous growth and robust flowering in Euphorbia hyssopifolia. The soil for Euphorbia hyssopifolia should ideally retain some moisture to keep the roots hydrated, yet it should release excess water swiftly to avoid oversaturation and promote optimal growth conditions.

How to Fertilize Hyssop-leaf sandmat?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Euphorbia hyssopifolia, applying a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength ensures proper growth. Use approximately 10-15 ml per liter of water, offering the plant necessary nutrients without overwhelming its roots.

How to Prune Hyssop-leaf sandmat?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Begin by removing any dead or damaged stems to open up the plant's structure. Cut back any long or unruly shoots to a node, shaping the plant to your desired form while allowing adequate light and air circulation. Regularly trim off the spent flower heads to encourage the plant to generate new blooms. For bushier growth, pinch back the stem tips after the flowering season has ended.

How to Propagate Hyssop-leaf sandmat plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer, Late summer

Select a healthy stem from the parent plant. Use sharp pruning shears to make a clean cut just below a node, approximately 10-15 cm in length. Remove the lower leaves to expose nodes.

Before planting, soak the seeds in lukewarm water overnight. This softens the seed coat, encouraging faster and more consistent germination. Plant the soaked seeds in seedling trays filled with sterile potting mix.

For cuttings, plant them in pots with a well-draining mix and provide indirect sunlight. Ensure consistent moisture without overwatering. For seeds, cover with a thin layer of soil and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.

How to Repot Hyssop-leaf sandmat plant?

Repotting frequency: Biennial or as needed

Euphorbia hyssopifolia should be repotted when you notice that it outgrows its current pot, or when root growth is visible through the drainage holes. Spring and autumn are ideal because the plant's growth is more active, reducing transplant shock.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with good drainage holes. A terracotta pot is beneficial as it naturally absorbs extra moisture, preventing root rot, which Euphorbia is prone to. Ensuring good drainage is crucial.

Opt for a well-draining soil mix, like cactus or succulent mix, enriched with perlite or sand. This soil mimics its natural habitat, providing the drainage needed to prevent root rot while supporting healthy growth.

Toxicity of Hyssop-leaf sandmat

Is Hyssop-leaf sandmat toxic to humans?

Hyssop-leaf sandmat can cause poisoning through ingestion or direct contact, particularly if it enters the eyes. It is crucial to seek medical assistance immediately, as the symptoms may vary from mild to severe. The toxic component of this plant is the sap, which exudes as a milky fluid. Ingesting this sap will lead to vomiting. Exposure to the sap in the eyes may result in mild conjunctivitis or escalate to severe kerato-uveitis, potentially leading to blindness. This weed is relatively common and can be found in gardens, walkways, lawns, and along roadsides, posing a significant risk to children.

Is Hyssop-leaf sandmat toxic to cat?

Hyssop-leaf sandmat presents a moderate toxicity concern for cats. When cats come into contact with or inadvertently consume parts of hyssop-leaf sandmat, particularly the plant's sap, they could experience poisoning. The primary toxic compounds found in hyssop-leaf sandmat are diterpene esters, which may lead to physical discomfort and illness in cats. Exposure can happen via skin contact or oral consumption, underscoring the importance for cat owners to remain vigilant in keeping their pets away from this plant. If a cat shows signs of distress after exposure to hyssop-leaf sandmat, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Is Hyssop-leaf sandmat toxic to dog?

Hyssop-leaf sandmat is recognized for its moderate toxicity risk to dogs. Canines can experience poisoning from hyssop-leaf sandmat through skin exposure or accidental ingestion. The primary toxic compound present in hyssop-leaf sandmat is diterpene esters, located within the plant's sap. Following exposure, dogs may show symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, dermatitis, or more serious reactions depending on the exposure levels. It is vital for dog owners to keep their pets away from any contact with or consumption of hyssop-leaf sandmat. Should poisoning be suspected, immediate veterinary intervention is crucial to ensure the optimal outcome for the affected pet.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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