With upright, ribbed grey-green branches lined with neat pairs of pale spines, the Euphorbia polyacantha has all the sculptural drama of a desert cactus, though it is in fact a spurge. Sometimes called the Many-spined Spurge, it is a succulent native to the rocky hillsides and dry valleys of the horn of Africa, from Ethiopia and Somalia to Eritrea and Sudan. It branches freely into a candelabra of columns, each ridged with four to seven well-defined ribs, building into a striking piece of living architecture.

It makes a bold, low-maintenance statement in a bright spot, bringing height and structure to a sunny windowsill, shelf or plant collection. A slow, easy-going grower that asks for little beyond good light and a careful hand.

Care at a glance

Light: Bright light, the more the better. It enjoys some direct sun, though take care to introduce strong sun gradually to avoid scorching.

Water: Treat as a desert succulent. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings, then water thoroughly and drain freely. Water very sparingly in winter, as it dislikes sitting wet.

Soil: A free-draining cactus and succulent mix is essential to keep the roots from staying damp.

Temperature: Warmth-loving. Keep it above 15°C and away from cold draughts.

Handling: Like all euphorbias, the stems carry spines and a milky white sap that is toxic and can irritate skin and eyes. Wear gloves if handling or pruning, wash any sap away promptly, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Supplied in a 17cm nursery pot. As a living plant, size and form vary from one to the next, so yours will be one of a kind.