White Ghost Cactus

The plant produces tiny, white flowers that bloom throughout the summer. White Ghost Cactus — Euphorbia lactea ‘White Ghost’
The White Ghost Cactus (Euphorbia lactea ‘White Ghost’ in scientific terms) is a spectacular, uncommon, and popular succulent valued for its ghostly white, cream, and pale pink hue. It is a member of the Euphorbia family, which is native to tropical Asia, even though its popular name implies that it is a real cactus.
The stems of this plant, which are a mutation of Euphorbia lactea, are nearly entirely white with sometimes faint pink or yellow hues. Chlorophyll is unique, but its scarcity also makes it more susceptible than its green counterparts.
Overview of Plants
Scientific Name: Euphorbia lactea ‘White Ghost’
Euphorbiaceae is the family.
Typical Names: Ghost Euphorbia, White Ghost Cactus
Cultivated variety (natural species indigenous to tropical Asia).
Habit of Growth: Upright, columnar, branching
Size:
Height: In perfect circumstances, it may grow to be between three and six feet (90 and 180 cm).
Coverage: between 2 and 3 feet (60 and 90 centimeters)
The way it looks
Stems:
practically entirely white to silvery-white
May exhibit variegation in light green, yellow, or pink
With a triangular cross section and little spines along the borders
Upright, candelabra-like growth
Leaves: Little and ephemeral, generally falling off soon after they appear
Flowers: Insignificant; seldom blooms inside
Light Needs
Inside:
Requires indirect, intense lighting
It can withstand direct morning sun, but it should avoid the intense afternoon rays that might burn its light stems.
An east or south-facing window is perfect.
Outside:
Prefers partial sunlight because excessive exposure to direct sunshine might bleach or burn the plant.
The ideal conditions are morning sun and afternoon shade.
Because it has less chlorophyll, it is more susceptible to light than green succulents.
Temperature and Humidity
Temperature:
Between 18 and 29°C (65 and 85°F), it flourishes.
Safeguard against temperatures below 10°C (50°F) since they are susceptible to the cold.
Humidity:
likes moderate to low humidity
Rot can be brought on by high humidity and inadequate ventilation.
Watering Schedule
Active Growth Season (Spring to Autumn):
When the soil is completely dry, water it well.
Usually every two to three weeks, depending on the circumstances
Winter Dormancy:
Water only once a month or less, only enough to keep it from drying out
Don’t overwater, since this Euphorbia is very susceptible to root rot if kept in moist soil.
🌱 Needs of the Soil
Kind:
Needs soil that drains well
Perfect combination:
a mixture of 50% cactus and succulent potting soil
30% pumice or perlite
20% fine gravel or coarse sand
pH: between 6.0 and 7.0, which is somewhat acidic to neutral.
Make sure to plant in a container with drainage holes.
🌱 Fertilizing
Throughout the Growing Season:
Once every four to six weeks, use a diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer (low nitrogen).
Winter:
There is no need for fertilization.
Excessive fertilizer usage might lead to stunted growth or malformations.
✂️ Maintenance and pruning
Needs very little trimming
Remove:
branches that are dead or broken
Any indication of insects or rot
Use gloves since the milky latex sap is poisonous and causes skin and eye irritation.
The process of replication
Generally spread via:
by professionals because this plant is fragile—stem cuttings
For a few days, cuttings should be allowed to dry and form a callous.
Then put it in dry, well-drained soil.
Because rooting might be a lengthy process, it’s important to take precautions against rot.
Due to its lower chlorophyll content, however, it might be challenging to propagate ‘White Ghost’.
Common Issues
Overwatering: Root and stem decay
Sunburn: Burned or scorched spots caused by excessive exposure to the sun
Pests: Prone to:
Mealy bugs
Spider mites
Insects on scales
Regular inspection and treatment with neem oil or insecticidal soap can prevent infestations.
⚠️ Toxicity
The milky sap (latex) is poisonous:
May induce skin irritation
Harmful if consumed by people or animals
Wear protective gloves at all times.
🎄 For Ornamental Use
Perfect for:
Contemporary minimalist houses
cactus and succulent collections
shows of indoor plants
Outside patios (in shade or partial sun)
It makes a distinctive and beautiful statement in any room with its spooky white appearance.
✅ Conclusion
The White Ghost Cactus (Euphorbia lactea ‘White Ghost’) is a rare, collectable succulent that needs a little extra attention because it is susceptible to sunlight and water. This plant will flourish and serve as the focal point of any plant collection if given the correct lighting, little watering, and adequate drainage.