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Cactus Growing Leaves? It's Likely a Euphorbia

Domi, 17, in Quebec, propagated a 50 cm cutting from a meter-tall "cactus" that never grew leaves in 20 years. The new plant now sprouts leaves at the top.

Explanation

The plant is almost certainly a Euphorbia (likely Euphorbia ingens or similar), not a true cactus. Many Euphorbias are leafless most of the year but produce seasonal leaves at stem tips during active growth. This is normal behavior.

Key Differences

FeatureCactusEuphorbia
SapClearMilky, irritating latex
LeavesRare, modified as spinesSeasonal, often at tips
FlowersShowy, many petalsTiny, in cyathia structures

Domi's plant is healthy. The expert requested a photo for precise ID and offered email contact.

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