Troubleshooting
Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' problems — and how to fix them
Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' (Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Stem rot from overwatering
Soft, blackening or yellowing stems signal root and stem rot, the most common cause of death. Cut back water drastically, repot into dry gritty mix, and remove any mushy tissue.
Etiolation in low light
Because the white tissue lacks chlorophyll, weak light produces thin, stretched, floppy growth. Move to the brightest available position with some direct sun through glass.
Irritant latex sap
Any cut releases a copious milky latex that burns skin and eyes. Always wear gloves and eye protection, and rinse immediately if sap contacts skin.
Cold damage
Below about 10C the stems can soften, discolour and collapse. Keep away from cold windowsills and draughts in winter and never let it freeze.
Prevent euphorbia lactea 'white ghost' problems before they start
Most euphorbia lactea 'white ghost' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common crested euphorbia problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' watering schedule
- Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' light requirements
- Best soil mix for euphorbia lactea 'white ghost'
- Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' temperature & humidity
- Full euphorbia lactea 'white ghost' care guide
Looking for euphorbia lactea 'white ghost' in general rather than its problems? Read the full euphorbia lactea 'white ghost' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' problems — FAQ
Why is my euphorbia lactea 'white ghost' stem rot from overwatering?
Soft, blackening or yellowing stems signal root and stem rot, the most common cause of death. Cut back water drastically, repot into dry gritty mix, and remove any mushy tissue.
Why is my euphorbia lactea 'white ghost' etiolation in low light?
Because the white tissue lacks chlorophyll, weak light produces thin, stretched, floppy growth. Move to the brightest available position with some direct sun through glass.
Why is my euphorbia lactea 'white ghost' irritant latex sap?
Any cut releases a copious milky latex that burns skin and eyes. Always wear gloves and eye protection, and rinse immediately if sap contacts skin.
Why is my euphorbia lactea 'white ghost' cold damage?
Below about 10C the stems can soften, discolour and collapse. Keep away from cold windowsills and draughts in winter and never let it freeze.