PLANT PRIMER

The variegated zigzag plant (Euphorbia tithymaloides ‘Variegatus’) is a fun houseplant, easy to grow and enjoy.

True to the name, this plant has medium-green stems with an unusual zigzag pattern.

One- to 3-inch-long leaves emerge from the outer zigzag of the stems. The lanceolate-shaped leaves are a lovely medium to light green with white and pink variegation on the edges. The leaves are sessile, attaching precisely to branches.

Zigzag plants prefer sandy, well-draining soil. When grown indoors, this plant will rarely flower. Like its cousin, the poinsettia, the zigzag plant has white latex sap that can irritate skin; care is advised when handling.

Variegated zigzag plants can be seen in the desert biome at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

— Barbara Arnold

Franklin Park Conservatory