Ruby Euphorbia Trigona

The Ruby Euphorbia Trigona is simply a red-colored version of the Euphorbia Trigona. As you can see from the image it is not red all over - in fact, there is not as much red as you might expect a cactus with the "Ruby" in it's name to have. The older leaves are red and the younger sections of the plant tend to be red. As per usual, the brand new growth is bright green and it will slowly turn red as it ages a bit. This cactus is not quite as leafy as I would expect it to be, however this is not necessarily an indicator of health. I think the plant is currently more focused on new growth than on putting out leaves. Since it is Summer the cactus doesn't need as many leaves for light collection, it will most likely switch to leaf growth as we transition into Fall.

Just like its solid green sister, this cactus typically has three sides. Though the arms tend to start with just two sides and will eventually shift to three sides as it grows.


I've had this plant for a little over four years now and it is just starting to come into its own. Within in the last month it has sent off starts for four arms. I'm exciting to see how it grows over the years to come.


I only water this plant once every other week right now, but I give it slightly more than half a cup for each watering session. Unfortunately, I recently found out that the glazed pot it is in is not glazed along the rim on the bottom. So when I moved it a couple of weeks ago I found a lovely water stain on the wood beneath it - quite disappointing.

Even the spines are red!

I currently have this cactus placed in bright, indirect sunlight. It is by a south facing window, but at a distance. It definitely is enjoying this location a lot as it has responded with a ton of new growth. Though, as any other plant, it will have its growing seasons so I'm sure the placement is not wholly to blame. 


This is an extremely easy cactus to grow (just like its green sister) if you can actually find it in the stores. I found this one at a specialty - and very expensive - local garden store. I was so excited I couldn't help buying it. I have never seen it since then however. The ruby color is a fun addition to my collection of cacti. I'm always on the look out for other colorful plants to break up the sea of green that is my living room.