"Diagnosis Please don't panic, this east African succulent is unusual in that it grows fleshy leaves along its ridged stems during its growing season, then often sheds them in winter. In its native Kenya, rainfall is seasonal. The plant responds by producing foliage in the wet season, then dropping its leaves in the dry season to conserve water and energy. The green stems continue to photosynthesise so the plant can survive leafless for long periods."
"To encourage new leaves, it needs intense, bright light; find the sunniest indoor spot you have, like a south-facing windowsill, or supplement with a grow light. Warmth will also prompt leaf growth, so keep it in a consistently warm room. When the soil is completely dry, water thoroughly until you see the water escape through the drainage holes. Do this in spring and summer when the plant is actively growing."
Euphorbia ritchiei is an East African succulent that produces fleshy leaves along ridged stems during the wet growing season and commonly sheds them in the dry winter. In native Kenya, seasonal rainfall triggers foliage production in the wet season and leaf drop in the dry season to conserve water and energy. The green stems remain photosynthetic, allowing survival while leafless. To promote leaf regrowth, provide intense, bright light, consistent warmth, and thorough watering only when the soil is completely dry during spring and summer. Reduce watering in winter and apply diluted cactus fertiliser during the growing season. Avoid overwatering when bare to prevent root rot.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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