
With its freakish, twisted white arms stretching out like tentacles, Euphorbia lactea ‘White Ghost’ makes a uniquely eye-catching addition to any succulent collection. This weird and wonderful plant is actually a crested mutation of the Euphorbia lactea species.
While it may look challenging to grow, White Ghost is actually quite easy to care for as long as you provide appropriate conditions. In this complete White Ghost care guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about lighting, watering, propagation, and more to keep your plant healthy and happy!

π Overview
Euphorbia lactea is a succulent species native to tropical regions of Africa. The crested ‘White Ghost’ cultivar is a mutation that causes the normally upright stems to contort and flatten into strange, tentacle-like formations. Instead of green, the plant’s stems, leaves, and “arms” are a ghostly white color.
This Euphorbia is not a cactus, but actually a unique succulent in the Euphorbiaceae family. Like its desert relatives, White Ghost stores water in its fleshy modified leaves and stems. Indoors, it stays small, growing to about 1-2 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. Slow-growing, it may take many years to reach full size.
When cared for properly, White Ghost makes a perfect indoor plant. Its alien-like arms will add intrigue and texture to your indoor succulent garden!
π Common name | White Ghost Cactus, White Ghost Cactus, Dragon Bones |
π¬ Botanical name | Euphorbia lactea 'White Ghost' |
π«΄ Care Difficulty level | Moderate |
β οΈ Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans (contains latex that can be irritating) |
π¨ Air-purifying Qualities | Not specifically known for air-purifying qualities |
π± Soil Type and pH | Well-draining cactus or succulent mix |
βοΈ Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
πͺ Edibility | Not edible |
π΄ Plant type | Succulent |
π Foliage Type | Evergreen |
πΏ Color of leaves | White to pale green |
πΈ Flower color | N/A |
π₯ Bloom time | N/A |
π Growth Speed | Slow to moderate |
π Mature Size | Up to 5 feet in height |
π Life Cycle | Perennial |
π Hardiness zones | 10-11 |
πΊοΈ Native area | Cultivated variety; parent species is native to India |
π White Ghost Cactus Care
Caring for Euphorbia lactea White Ghost involves providing plenty of sunlight, minimal watering, well-draining soil, and relatively high humidity. Avoid temperature extremes. With the right conditions, this weird white plant will thrive for years!
βοΈ Light βοΈ
Bright light is essential for White Ghost. For best results, provide at least 4 hours of direct sun per day. South or west-facing windows are ideal. A minimum of 6 hours per day under grow lights will also suffice.
Without enough sun exposure, White Ghost will start to stretch out and etiolate, losing its nice compact shape. If you notice your plant becoming lanky, move it into brighter light immediately.
While it needs sun, be sure to acclimate it gradually to avoid sunburn! Start with just an hour or two of morning sun per day.
π§ Water
White Ghost prefers infrequent but deep watering. Only water when the potting mix has completely dried out, then soak the soil thoroughly. In the summer growing season, this may mean watering every 7-10 days. In winter, you may only need to water every 3-4 weeks.
Check the soil with your finger before watering. If it feels damp an inch below the surface, hold off. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to avoid standing water, which can lead to root rot.
Give less water in the winter when plant growth slows. If the arms start to wrinkle, it’s time to water! Euphorbia are sensitive to overwatering, so err on the side of underwatering.
πͺ΄ Soil
A very fast-draining potting mix is required for White Ghost. Use a commercial cactus/succulent blend or make your own using equal parts potting soil, perlite, coarse sand, and orchid bark. Do not use regular potting soil, as it will hold too much moisture.
Terracotta pots also help wick away moisture. Repot every 2-3 years into fresh soil, or when potbound. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent wet feet.
πΌ Fertilizer
Fertilize White Ghost lightly in the spring and summer with a balanced houseplant or succulent fertilizer diluted to half strength. Liquid formulations can be diluted with each watering every 2-4 weeks.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as excess salts can burn the roots. Do not fertilize in fall/winter when growth slows. Always flush the soil every few months to prevent fertilizer buildup.
π‘οΈ Temperature
White Ghost prefers temperatures between 65-80Β°F (18-27Β°C) during the day and above 50Β°F (10Β°C) at night. Avoid drastic temperature swings and protect from frost and freezing.
During winter when the air is drier, you may need to provide supplemental humidity around your plant with a pebble tray. Keep away from cold drafts and maintain indoor temperatures above 60Β°F (15Β°C).
π¦ Humidity
This succulent prefers 40-60% ambient humidity, higher than most full sun desert plants. Provide good airflow to prevent disease, but avoid extremely dry conditions indoors during fall and winter months when heaters are running.
Use a humidifier or pebble tray to increase local moisture if needed. Just take care not to directly mist the plant, as moisture on the leaves can cause rot.
π Types of White Ghost Cactus
There are a few different varieties of Euphorbia lactea to consider:
- Euphorbia lactea var. lactea – The normal green species. Grows in an upright columnar form.
- Euphorbia lactea ‘White Ghost’ – The crested white mutation. Has flattened, tentacle-like arms.
- Euphorbia lactea ‘Cristata’ – Also crested, but has green coloration.
- Euphorbia lactea ‘Frilly Willy’ – Ruffled, wavy leaves on a green plant.
No matter which you choose, all share the same care needs. White Ghost’s white color and alien-like growth habit make it especially unique!
Blooming and Flowers

Mature White Ghost plants may produce small yellow-green cyathia flowers in summer. The flowers are interesting but not very showy, and the plant is grown more for its structural form.
To encourage blooming:
- Ensure the plant gets plenty of direct sunlight.
- Allow the soil to dry out between thorough waterings.
- Provide temperatures above 65Β°F (18Β°C).
- Fertilize occasionally during spring using a balanced fertilizer.
Even without blooms, Euphorbia lactea White Ghost makes a statement! Focus on proper care and its fabulous form.
πͺ΄ Potting and Repotting White Ghost Cactus
Repot White Ghost every 2-3 years in the spring, or when it becomes rootbound. Gently remove from its pot and loosen any circled roots. Repot into a container one size larger using fresh succulent/cactus soil blend.
Add 1-2 inches of space around the root ball for new growth. Don’t bury the plant deeper than it was originally growing. Water sparingly after repotting to reduce stress.
Make sure the new container has drainage holes. Terracotta pots are recommended as they help dry out the soil. Avoid overpotting, as White Ghost likes being slightly rootbound.
βοΈ Pruning White Ghost Cactus
Besides removing spent blooms, pruning is not required. You can trim off any dead or damaged arms as needed to maintain an attractive shape.
Always use clean, sterile pruning shears or a knife to avoid disease transmission. Make cuts at an angle near the base of the plant. Limit major pruning to avoid unnecessary stress on the plant.
To propagate, take 4-6 inch healthy cuttings in the spring. Allow cut ends to callous before rooting in soil. Remove offsets that form at the base when repotting.
π± How to Propagate White Ghost Cactus
Euphorbia lactea White Ghost can be propagated by:
Cuttings – Take 4-6 inch cuttings from mature stems using a clean, sharp knife. Allow the cut end to dry and callous for a few days before rooting in soil. Dip in rooting hormone for quicker root growth.
Offsets – Gently remove baby plantlets that form at the base of the stems. Allow to dry briefly before potting in a small container using well-draining soil.
Seeds – Plant seeds in a sterile starting mix, maintaining warm temps. Germination is erratic and can take many weeks. Carefully transplant seedlings when large enough.
Take care when propagating, as the sap can irritate skin. Wear gloves and avoid getting sap in eyes. With the right care, propagating White Ghost is straightforward.
π Common Pests
Euphorbia lactea is generally resistant to pests, but may occasionally encounter:
Mealybugs – Cottony insects that leave white residue on plant. Wipe off with alcohol or treat with insecticidal soap.
Aphids – Green, yellow, or black soft bodied insects. Rinse off with water or use neem oil.
Scale – Small brown bumps on the stems that can be rubbed off. Prune affected areas.
Root mealybugs – Fluffy white bugs that affect the roots. Apply systemic insecticide for large infestations.
Fungus gnats – Harmless flies that are more of a nuisance. Allow soil to fully dry between waterings.
Isolate new plants and monitor for pests routinely. Promptly treat any infestations found before they can spread. Maintain proper growing conditions for a healthy plant that can resist pests.
π©Ί Common Problems With White Ghost Cactus
Here are some potential problems and how to fix them:
Etiolation – Weak, leggy growth from insufficient light. Move plant to a brighter location.
Rotting stems – Caused by overwatering. Allow soil to dry out completely before watering again.
Wrinkled, thinning stems – Sign of underwatering. Give plant a good soak and water more frequently.
Sudden arm droop – May indicate root issues. Check for root rot and repot in fresh dry soil.
White spots or residue – Potential mealybug infestation. Inspect closely and treat any pests found.
Failure to bloom – Insufficient sunlight usually the culprit. Provide over 4 hours of direct sun.
Monitor plant health closely to catch issues before they worsen. Remove diseased or pest damaged sections promptly.
πΌοΈ Display Ideas
The unique tentacles of White Ghost lend themselves to some fun display ideas:
- Set on an end table or plant pedestal to highlight its wild twisting arms.
- Contrast against lush green houseplants or brightly colored pots.
- Group with other interesting succulents for an eclectic indoor garden.
- Plant in a hanging basket so the arms can dangle down dramatically.
- Mix with air plants or tillandsia for a minimalist look.
- Add grow lights to show off on any dark shelf or cabinet top.
- Use as a centerpiece surrounded by rocks and dΓ©cor.
- Give as a gift to fellow succulent fans and plant collectors!
Let White Ghost’s weirdness take center stage in your home. It’s sure to be a conversation starter!
π Pro Tips for Healthy Growth
Follow these pro tips and tricks for keeping your White Ghost at its healthiest:
- Gradually acclimate new plants to avoid burning in direct sun.
- Keep away from drafts and heating/AC vents to prevent temperature extremes.
- Allow soil to dry out between thorough waterings to prevent rot.
- Add a grow light if you can’t provide over 4 hours of direct sun.
- Mist plants occasionally to provide extra humidity when air is very dry.
- Wear gloves when handling to avoid skin irritation from the sap.
- Rotate the pot periodically for even growth on all sides.
- Propagate in spring for better success rate.
- Repot before it becomes rootbound or if soil stays soggy.
Your fantastical White Ghost will thrive when given the proper care and conditions. Happy growing!
β FAQ
Q: How often do I need to water White Ghost?
A: Water every 7-10 days in summer when the soil dries out, and every 2-3 weeks in winter. Always check soil before watering.
Q: What kind of soil does White Ghost need?
A: Use a very fast draining cactus/succulent potting mix. You can make your own with coarse sand, perlite, bark, etc.
Q: Where should I place my White Ghost?
A: Provide over 4 hours of direct sun indoors. South or west-facing windows are ideal. Add grow lights if needed.
Q: Why is my plant turning brown?
A: Brown crispy tips often indicate sunburn from too much light without acclimation. Move to a shadier spot and introduce light levels gradually.
Q: How do I prune and propagate White Ghost?
A: Use a sharp, sterile knife or shears to take 4-6 inch cuttings or remove offsets in spring or summer. Let dry and root in soil.
π Final Thoughts
With just a little extra attention to its care requirements, the wonderfully weird Euphorbia lactea ‘White Ghost’ makes an easy, unique houseplant. Its alien-like white tentacles will certainly become a conversation piece!
By giving White Ghost plenty of sun, not overwatering, providing humidity, and well-draining soil, you can keep your plant thriving for years as an unusually eye-catching indoor succulent.
For something a little different from typical green cacti and succulents, give White Ghost a try! Follow the guidance in this care guide and you’ll be growing a healthy, happy plant in your home.
π Further Reading
π Learn More about White Ghost Cactus
π References
π Flora & Fauna Web information on Monstera deliciosa – National Parks Board Singapore.
π Monstera deliciosa Plant Details – Missouri Botanical Garden.