Corn Cob Euphorbia (Euphorbia mammillaris), 4-Inch Pot

Corn Cob Euphorbia (Euphorbia mammillaris) brings bold texture to a sunny plant collection with upright, ribbed stems patterned like rows of kernels. Small leaves can appear at the growing tips, while branching offsets give established plants a sculptural, shrub-like shape. Green stems may develop reddish or purple tones in brighter conditions.

Points of interest

• Corn-cob-like ribs and small projections give the stems their distinctive texture.
• Individual plants may be single-stemmed or have several offsets; branching and fullness vary.
• Small leaves near the tips may drop seasonally without meaning the succulent stems are unhealthy.
• A succulent Euphorbia, not a true cactus; damaged stems release irritating milky sap.

What ships and estimated mature size

One live Corn Cob Euphorbia rooted in a 4-inch nursery grow pot. The source lists the plant at approximately 4 inches or taller above the pot; height, offset count and coloration vary naturally. The pot measurement is not the plant's height. Original photos show representative plants at different stages of branching.

With years of suitable care, a container-grown plant may develop into a branching specimen approximately 1–2 feet tall and wide or more. Mature size depends on light, growing conditions and pruning. Decorative terracotta pots, top dressings and other styling accessories are not included and are sold separately.

Care guide

• Light: Provide very bright light with several hours of direct sun. Introduce stronger sun gradually, especially after shipping or indoor growing. Outdoors, protect from intense midday sun in very hot weather. Reddish coloration varies; do not force it with sudden harsh exposure.
• Water: Let the potting mix dry fully before watering thoroughly, then allow excess water to drain. Empty any saucer and avoid standing water. Water much less during cool, dim conditions or slowed growth. Do not follow a fixed weekly schedule without checking the soil.
• Soil: Use a gritty, fast-draining cactus and succulent mix in a pot with drainage holes. Our Succulent & Cactus Soil Blend is an optional, separately sold supply. Avoid dense, moisture-retentive soil and oversized containers.
• Humidity: Ordinary dry indoor air is suitable. Do not mist; maintain airflow and protect outdoor plants from prolonged rain.
• Temperature: Keep warm and frost-free. Avoid cold drafts, cold window glass and especially cold, wet soil. Bring patio plants indoors before frost.
• Feeding: Feed lightly during active spring and summer growth, following the fertilizer label for succulent use and pot size. Our 2 oz Slow-Release Fertilizer for Houseplants & Succulents is sold separately. Reduce or pause feeding during inactivity and extreme heat or cold; do not feed a stressed plant.
• Pruning: Routine pruning is unnecessary. If removing damaged growth or controlling size, use clean tools, gloves and eye protection. Avoid all contact with the milky sap and keep cut surfaces dry while they heal. Wash tools after use.
• Repotting: Repot during warm active growth when roots are crowded or the mix has deteriorated. Move up only one pot size, keep the original planting depth and protect the stems from damage. Allow injured roots to heal before resuming watering.
• Propagation: Experienced growers can propagate healthy offsets or stem cuttings, with gloves and eye protection because of the sap. Allow the cut end to form a dry callus before placing it in an airy succulent medium; introduce water cautiously as roots develop. Do not leave cuttings or sap-contaminated materials within reach of children or pets.

Pet safety: Not safe for pets or children. Milky sap can irritate skin and cause serious eye injury, and ingestion can be harmful. Keep out of reach and handle carefully.