Euphorbia bupleurifolia: A Bizarre, Pineapple-Topped Succulent with a Caudex

Euphorbia bupleurifolia is one of the most unusual euphorbias. It forms a globose, subterranean caudex (swollen stem) topped with a tuft of long, narrow, deciduous leaves that resemble a pineapple crown. The caudex is covered in spirally arranged, prominent tubercles (old leaf bases). Small, greenish cyathia appear among the leaves. Native to South Africa, it’s a caudiciform treasure for collectors of weird plants.

Taxonomic Profile

Care

Bright light to full sun. Very porous, mineral soil. Water moderately when in leaf (spring–summer); keep completely dry when leafless (winter). Frost tender; minimum 50°F (10°C). The caudex stores water—avoid overwatering. Propagate from seeds.