Medium-sized ever-green or semi-deciduous succulent shrub, up to 120 cm tall Stem: Unbranched or sparsely branched, sometimes spiraling, narrowing to the top, with longitudinal rows of thorns, with a diameter of 3 cm. The branches are 5-angled, broadening toward the tips, have grey leaf-scars, and are dark green to olive brown. Leaves: Glossy bright green, elliptic, 12 by 2.5(-5) cm long, fleshy to quite leathery, with a prominent mid-vein, laced with white veins, and grow near the top of a stem. The leaf-stalks are 1.5 cm long and rather thick. Flowers: The inflorescence of this species is usually on stalks, the true flowers are yellowish-green encircled by large white to pink pseudo flowers on a greenish-red stalk.Blooming season: Summer
Relatively flexible in its watering requirements. They can be watered regularly as long as the medium is open and well drained. As with any normal plant when watering, it is best to do so thoroughly, until a little water comes out through the drain holes. Allow the medium to dry out somewhat between waterings. Reduce watering to once every 1.5 weeks during winter.
Regular fertilizing with low nitrogen and high phosphorus and potassium ratios are preferred. Feed during spring and summer to mid autumn and withhold feeding during winter.
The ideal potting-medium is one with good moisture-retaining capacity but open and well drained with some extra manure for added nutrition.
