Columnar Cactus “Bruce” and the Wild West
Bruce, Cactus Euphorbia or columnar cactus
If you like “Butch Cassidy” or John Wayne movies, “Bruce” is the ideal backdrop. This succulent plant seems to have come straight out of a western. It looks like a columnar cactus, but botanically it belongs to the euphorbia.
However, care requirements are similar. Because “Bruce” loves a dry, hot climate, little water and a bright location, but is otherwise very easy to clean. There are only a few things to consider: Since he quickly develops into a handsome guy, it's best to give him enough space right from the start. Also spare him the blazing midday sun. During the summer months, after a period of familiarization, you can easily place him in a sunny to semi-shady outdoor area, but make sure that he receives as little rainwater as possible (possibly keep him covered). In autumn, euphorbia must enter the house in good time, where it ideally hibernates in a room warm at least 15 degrees C with plenty of daylight and little water. If the pillar euphorbia gets too big, it can be cut. But be careful: The milky sap causes skin irritation, which is why gloves should be worn when working.
A stocky South African is hiding behind Euphorbia “Bruce”
The cactus-like Euphorbia belongs to the large milkweed family and comes from South Africa. Their thickened shoots act as water reservoirs and give the succulent a good chance of survival in dry and hot regions. In their home country, these plants grow up to ten meters tall — depending on the species — and in indoor cultivation they are still between one and two and a half, depending on the species.
Euphorbia is a milkweed whose white — poisonous to us — milky sap has a protective function for the plant. Despite its toxicity, it was previously used by the local population. It is used to heal injured tendons, as an ointment against head diseases, and even paralysis, migraines, sciatica and jaundice have been treated with it. Surprisingly, there are wild animals in Africa that have adapted to the poisonous milky sap and can eat the plant without being harmed.
