White Ghost
Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost'
A slow variegated Euphorbia with creamy white to pale stems and little chlorophyll. Angular three-sided stems have wavy, spined margins. Bright filtered light and a full dry-down between waterings keep it from rotting.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Low
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
Low
Pet Warning
Highly toxic. Produces a milky white sap (latex) that causes severe skin irritation, eye damage, and gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
Care Notes
Light
Bright, indirect light is safest. Some morning sun is fine. Intense afternoon sun can burn white tissue that lacks chlorophyll.
Water
Use soak-and-dry. Wait until the soil is fully dry, then water thoroughly. In winter, water about every 6-8 weeks. Always use a pot with drainage holes.
Soil
A gritty cactus mix with pumice or perlite drains fast enough to protect roots.
Humidity & Temperature
Low humidity is fine. Keep temperatures above about 50°F. This plant is not frost-tolerant and prefers warm, dry rooms.
Common Issues
Root rot comes from wet soil. Brown or yellow patches can mean sunburn after a sudden move into strong light. Wear gloves and eye protection when pruning: the milky latex is caustic and toxic.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Cactus and succulent-specific liquid fertilizer
Soil
Gritty, well-draining cactus mix with mineral components like pumice or perlite.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
3-6 feet tall indoors
Growth Rate
Slow
Propagation
Stem cuttings (cuttings must be dried/calloused for a week before planting; wear protective gear).
Common Varieties
Euphorbia lactea 'Cristata' (Coral Cactus)
Fan-shaped crested form with undulating ridges in silver-white, often with subtle pink margins.
Euphorbia lactea 'Variegata'
Upright triangular stems in creamy white and pale grey with wavy, spined ridges and little chlorophyll.