Euphorbia lactea ‘White Ghost’ is an extremely pale variegated form of a tropical succulent species. Its ridged, angular stems are largely cream or ivory with variable grey-green markings. Although often sold as a cactus, it belongs to the Euphorbiaceae and produces irritating milky latex when cut.
Shop Euphorbia lactea ‘White Ghost’ cuttings and plants, see the wider succulent Euphorbia care guide or browse the Cacti & Succulents collection.
Why White Ghost grows slowly
The pale tissue contains less chlorophyll than normal green growth. Photosynthetic capacity therefore depends heavily on the remaining green tissue, making heavily variegated cuttings slower to root and extend. Different cuttings can show different growth rates even under the same conditions.
Choosing a cutting
Compare length, thickness, branching and the amount of viable green tissue rather than judging value from length alone. A fresh wound should be allowed to dry and form a firm callus before it is exposed to wet substrate. A callused cutting is not necessarily rooted, so check the listing carefully.
Rooting White Ghost cuttings
Use a small pot and a very free-draining medium. Keep the cutting upright, warm and in bright filtered light while roots form. Do not keep an unrooted base continuously wet: without established roots, water uptake is limited and prolonged moisture can encourage decay. Increase watering only after resistance, root growth or stable new growth indicates establishment.
Light
Bright light supports the limited green tissue, but pale stems can scorch if moved abruptly into strong sun. Acclimate in stages and watch for bleached, corky or discoloured areas. Weak, narrow extension growth usually indicates insufficient light.
Water, substrate and winter care
Once rooted, water thoroughly and allow the substrate to dry before watering again. Keep the plant frost-free and preferably above 10°C. In winter, combine brighter positioning with substantially reduced watering. Cold, wet compost is a greater risk than temporary dryness.
Normal variation
Stem shape, branching, green marbling and spine development vary between cuttings. New growth may not exactly reproduce the pattern of the original section. This is biological variation rather than a product defect.
Safety
Wear gloves whenever cutting or handling damaged tissue. Keep the latex away from eyes, mouth, children and pets. Wash contaminated skin promptly and clean cutting tools after use.