Albert Pritchard

Introduction to the
Êuphorbiaceae

Libri X
Copyright © 2003 Cactus & Co.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may

be reproduced in any form without written
permission of the copyright owner.

Distributed to the book trade by Cactus & Co.

Alberto Marvelli, via Colombo 18,
21040 Venegono Sup. (VA),
fax 0331-842921, e-mail: amarvel@[Link]

Editing: Lino Di Martino

Translation: Annalisa Oddo

Design & layout: Alben Pritchard

ISBN 88-900511-4-0

Printed in Italy by:

Gráfica Quadro, Tradate (VA), Italy
Digital scans & films by:
Eurograph, Vedano Olona (VA), Italy
Cactus & Co. is honoured to publish this
introduction to the Euphorbiaceae, kindly
supplied by Albert & Daphne Pritchard.
The publication of books about the
succulent world, and their distribution
to subscribers at a price just covering
paper and printing costs,
is one of the main aims of our Society.

Alberto Marvelli, President

http: I ¡www. [Link]
 Albert Pritchard

Introduction to the
Euphorbiaceae

CACTUS & Co. libri

 Foreword
The thought of writing a short booklet on the Euphorbiaceae was prompted
by many requests from people for information about this large family of
diverse plants. Also to satisfy my curiosity to see if a layman could put together
some helpful, accurate information which would be of use to those beginning
to take an interest in this group of plants.

All photos are from our collection of slides with the exception of E.
ankarensis on page 29 and E. primulifolia on page 32 which are by Mr. T.
Jenkins, E. turbiniformis which is by Dr. Vlk and E. antisyphilitica which is by
Mr. J. Henshaw. The drawing on this page is by Mr. G. Marx. 1 thank all of them
for the donation or use of this material.

To all with an interest in these wonderful strange plants, I wish you good
growing and pleasure from the struggle to keep them alive and thriving.

/
J
:
•c *
&
4U

Sn^ t' *"•*>+

Contents
Page
Euphorbiaceae Family Tree 6
The Euphorbiaceae 7
Succulent Euphorbiaceae 7
Succulent Euphorbia species 7
Moroccan and Canary Island Species 10
South African Species 13
Madagascan Species 26
West African Species 32
East African Species 33
Kenyan Species 37
Zimbabwean Species 39
Indian Species 42
American Species 44
Monadenium 47
Synadenium 52
fatropha 52
Pedilanthus 55
Cultivation 56
Garden Euphorbias 58
Economically Valuable Members
of the Euphorbiaceae 58
Conservation 60
References and further reading 61
Glossary 63
 UMJisti^iïsir. r/\ívi

EUPHORBIACEAE

5 SUBFAMILIES WHICH INCLUDES:

THE RUBBER TREE
3 0 0 GENERA (HEVEA BRASIUENSIS)
CASTOR OIL PLANT
6000 SPECIES (RICINUS COMMUNIS)
MANIHOT ESCULENTA
(THE SOURCE OF
CASSAVA & TAPIOCA)
CROTONS ETC.

SUCCULENT SPECIES ARE INCLUDED

IN THE THREE SUBFAMILIES AS SHOWN BELOW

CROTONOIDEAE EUPHORBIOIDEAE
WHICH INCLUDES HAS 5 TRIBES
THE TRIBES: ONE OF WHICH IS THE
EUPHORBIEAE
JATROPHAEAE WHICH HAS 3 SUBTRIBES
I ONE OF WHICH IS THE:
JATROPHA EUPHORBIINAE
I WHICH INCLUDES:
MANIHOTEAE EUPHORBIA
I MONADENIUM
MANIHOT SYNADENIUM
PEDILANTHUS
ENDADENIUM

PHYLLANTHOIDEAE
PHILLANTHUS
Chart showing the three subfamilies which contain succulent genera
cultivated by enthusiasts. Adapted from "The Classification of the
Euphorbiaceae", G. Webster 1994 {Ann. Miss. Bot. Gdns: 81: 33-117).
 The Euphorbiaceae
The Euphorbiaceae is the fourth largest family of flowering plants, within its
6000 species are plants ranging from tiny annual weeds to giant trees. They are
found in most of the continents of the world except for the Arctic and
Antarctic. Some have economic value and are essential to modern life. This
vast number of species is divided up into five sub-families, and a number of
tribes and subtribes and further into 300 genera. In a booklet as small as this
we can only touch on some of these plants and a list of further reading is
provided at the end of this publication.

Succulent Euphorbiaceae
The succulent members of the Euphorbiaceae are in the main found in the
subfamily Eupborbioideae, in the tribe Eupborbieae. It is here in the sub-tribe
Eupborbiinae that we find the genera Euphorbia, Monadenium, Synadenium
and Pedilanthus, whilst the genus Jatropba is found in the sub- family
Crotonoideae in the tribe Jatropheae and Phyllanthus is in the subfamily
Phyllanthoideae. The diagram on page six shows this in detail. The
classification of the Euphorbiaceae is somewhat complicated and confusing
and much work needs to be carried out to simplify it and make it more precise.
Typically the genus Euphorbia has some twenty five sections into which some
2000 species are arranged, some sections having only one species. Currently
several botanists are working on the genus to reduce and condense its various
sections, so, hopefully, making it more easier to understand.

The cultivation of plants of the family Euphorbiaceae presents a challenge,

as plants growing in the wild respond differently when grown in
greenhouses. Amongst things affected is size, which may be greater or
smaller depending on the species, and flowering, which may be more, less,
or not at all. The method of propagation from cuttings also causes problems
as often plants do not reproduce true to type. If the plant is just a rooted arm
or branch then it may not produce a true main stem and therefore its growth
will not show the real characteristics of the species. Another problem to face
is the fact that these plants grow over such a large area of the world, which
means that some species want to grow at awkward times for us. We have to
learn when our plants want to grow and rest. However, most seem to have a
pattern of growth almost throughout the year, with the most active times
being in the spring and autumn, with little activity in the summer. We should
not be deterred from attempting to grow these plants because of this
phenomenon but should treat it as a challenge to learn and spread the
information gathered. Now we will explore each genus briefly and suggest
species suitable for the collector.

Succulent Euphorbias
The succulent Euphorbias are found in many parts of the world, from the
continent of Africa to the Canary Isles, India, Madagascar, and the Americas;
even Australia has one or two species.

7
King Juba of Mauritania (today's Morocco) is credited as the first person to
discover a succulent Euphorbia and give the genus its name. S o m e w h e r e
between 25 BC and 18 AD, he discovered a plant in the Atlas m o u n t a i n s : it was
most likely E. officinarum o r E. resinífera. King Juba named the plant after his
d o c t o r w h o s e n a m e was Euphorbus, the meaning of this w o r d being "well fed",
the king comparing his fat fleshy d o c t or with the plant. Non- succulent species
had been k n o w n back in Ancient Greek times and were called "Titbymalus".
The t w o n a m es existed side by side until 1583 w h e n a botanical link was m a d e
by Andrea Cesalpino, then in 1753 Linnaeus listed both u n d e r o n e n a m e
"Euphorbia". Today "Tithymalus" still exists as a section o r s u b g r o u p of
Euphorbia.

Before w e look at some of the species

available to the collector, we should
consider o n e or two of the outstanding
features of this g r o u p of plants. A good
starting p o i n t is the u n u s u a l floral
characteristics. In fact the plants d o not
have flowers as m o st p e o p l e w o u l d
recognise them, but have developed a
highly specialised floral structure, called
CYATHIUM. This consists of a small c u p
shaped receptacle which contains the
flowers, a n d t h e r e are t w o types:
Unisexual and Bisexual. In a unisexual
cyathium there is either a single female
flower (never more than one) or a n u m b e r of male flowers. A bisexual cyathium
consists of o n e female flower (again never m o r e than one) s u r r o u n d e d by many
male flowers. Around this structure are five lobes alternating with five nectaries,
o r glands. These glands have different shapes in various species and it is their
colour that gives rise to the colour t o n e of the cyathium. Colours of green, red,
yellow, white and pink exist amongst the species. There are leaf-like bracts
a r o u n d the cyathia and the colour of these varies considerably from green, red,
yellow, white and pink, and in s o m e species (especially those from Madagascar)
give the plants a very attractive and colourful appearance. The exceptionally
well developed bracts of the Poinsettia are a good illustration of this. The most
c o m m o n cyathium amongst the species is considered to be o n e female flower
s u r r o u n d e d by a n u m b e r of male flowers i.e. Bisexual, but variations of this
exist amongst the various species. It is considered by some that the unisexual
flowering is a later development in evolution and often the remnan t of the
female flower will be found in male cyathia. (The picture o n this page is a much
enlarged view of the cyathia of R globosa.).

S p e c i e s c a n therefore be:

1) BISEXUAL o r 2) UNISEXUAL

8
 Bisexual Cyathium, vertical section.

Key:
a. Bracts
b. Base of the cyathium
c. Glands
d. Lobes of the cyathium
e. Male flowers s u r r o u n d i n g o n e female flower
f. Bifid stigma lobes of female flower

Adapted and iv produced from "The Lexicon of Succulents Plains" by Hermann Jacobson,
published by Blandford. 1974.

Although these cyathia are very small they can still p r o d u c e a wonderful show
when a plant is in full bloom. To see vast stands of E. caerulescens (formerly
coerulescens) clothed in masses of bright yellow cyathia is a wonderful sight.
In s o m e species cyathia are developed into an elaborate inflorescence o r
cymes of m a n y cyathia, again p r o d u c i n g attractive floral displays. E.
pacbypodioides from Madagascar is a g o o d example of this.

The second feature to consider is the white latex sap, which all Euphorbias
possess. This sap has great water retentive properties which no doubt help the
plants to survive harsh dry, hot conditions. Most people will be aware of its
somewhat nasty irritant and poisonous properties. We should accept that all
Euphorbias contain it and treat it with d u e care and caution. Great care should be

9
exercised w h e n handling these plants, and sap from broken or cut surfaces
should be removed from the hands, o r wherever it has deposited itself, by the
use of copious hot water and soap. Care should be taken to ensure that it does
not get into any t e n d e r areas of the body such as the eyes, ears, nose etc. You
can read many accounts in various publications about how the sap or
derivatives of it were used in times g o n e by to treat many disorders including
the eyes and throat. One w o n d e r s how many p o o r souls, if they did not die
from the treatment, must have spent some considerable time in pain from it.

The n u m b e r of succulent species in this genus is approximately 850, as

recognised by Susan Carter and Urs Eggli in "The CITES Checklist of Succulent
Euphorbia Taxa 1997". This figure could vary d e p e n d i n g o n the definition of
"succulent". Also n e w species have b e e n described since the publication.
Euphorbias range from miniature plants, to trees 15 - 20 metres tall. Some are
borderline succulents, and some, like E. obesa ssp. obesa, are the acme of
succulence. Plants for the collector with an average size g r e e n h o u s e could
include a selection from the following.

Moroccan a n d Canary Islands S p e c i e s

The species from these areas are not very interesting for the serious collector,
as most of t h em are large, thick s t e m m e d shrubs. There are three species from
Morocco which could be grown:

E. resinífera. A large growing, multi-branched species, growing to

several metres across. The branches are bright green, four-angled and grow to
a length of 50 cm Brownish coloured spines 0.5 cm long are b o r n e along the
length of the arms. It appears to be shy of flowering in cultivation.

X• !
i

Euphorbia resinífera in habitat. Atlas mountains, Morocco.

II)
 E. officinarum. With stems up to 2 metres in height and 6 cm thick,
this species branches freely to form large clumps. The stems are 9 -10 angled
and with straight edges. Spines are usually up to 2 cm long and grow at
intervals along the stems, but spine length can be variable and some
specimens are virtually spineless. Several varieties and subspecies were
described but are now all included under this one name.

. , T* r •»•ral
i w
/

Euphorbia officinarum near Agadir, Morocco.

E. echinus. This species forms hemi - spherical clumps up to 1 metre

in diameter, with many closely packed, branched, upright stems 4 - 5 cm
thick, and with 5 - 8 angles. Stem colour is light green. Paired spines 0.5 - 2
cm long are carried at intervals along the stems. The cyathia are an attractive
brownish red.

E. resinífera and E. officinarum were the source in the past of the

gum known as EUPHORBIUM which was a highly prized material,
considered to have miraculous curative properties. These properties, 1
think, were in the main rather far fetched and use of the gum could be very
dangerous.

From the Canary Islands the following species could be grown:

E. canariensis. This is one of the most well known of the

Euphorbias, it is a large growing plant with four or five sided stems armed
with strong paired spines arranged down the angles of the stems. In habitat it
grows to a height of two to three metres and the stems can be five to six cm
thick. The flower colour is reddish-green. There is also a spiralled stem form.

11
Currently seedlings of this species have a great use amongst enthusiasts as the
grafting stock for choicer species.

E. balsamifera. A shrubby plant up to two metres in height, whose

stems are contorted and grey in colour. Leaves are arranged in rosettes at the
end of branches, which are spineless. This species is easy to grow - but the
growing period is September-April, which means a winter temperature of 10
"C is required. There is a more compact plant called E. balsamifera ssp.
adenensis from S. Arabia, Somalia and the Sudan, which is a much more
attractive plant but a little more difficult to grow.

Euphorbia canariensis and Euphorbia balsamifera, Southern Tenerife.

E. aphylla. This is a freely branching small tree, with many cylindrical,

pencil - thin greyish green branches. It grows to a height of 3 metres in
habitat. Leaves are small and soon drop and the terminal cyathia appear on
short stalks at the end of branches. It can remain small in cultivation.

E. handiensis comes from the island of Fuerteventura. Stems of this

species reach a height of 80-100 cm, are 3-4 cm thick and have 8-14 ribs. The
paired spines are carried along the angles of the stems and the flowers are
reddish. This species is possibly endangered by tourism and not by collection.

Most plants from these areas are not suitable for the small greenhouse unless
one is prepared to cope with large growing plants. Growth can be restricted
by underpotting and refraining from repotting. One can always start over again
when they get too large with new cuttings or seedlings.

1^
 S o u t h African S p e c i e s
There are many species native to South Africa, some of which are c o m m o n ,
others which are rare - in fact there are a great many succulent species from
South Africa which are wort h seeking out and growing. Firstly a few species
which are c o m m o n and are easy to obtain.

E. obesa s s p . obesa (still known as E. obesa). O n e of the most

p o p u l a r succulent Euphorbias, this spineless, solitary, globular plant has a
moderately developed tap root o r several roots. It grows to 20 cm or m o r e in
height and 9 cm plus in diameter. The body is subglobose w h e n young,
becoming cylindrical with age, showing from 7 to 10 shallow ribs (sections). It
is grey-green in colour with n u m e r o u s dull p u r p l e bands; narrow grooves
cross these b a n d s giving the effect of a small "Tartan Pumpkin". The sections
are further marked by a row of small m i n u t e tubercles forming seams
reminiscent of the " s e a m s " o n a rugby ball, thus making it a very attractive
plant. The species is unisexual, and any given plant will be male o r female, its
cyathia containing only o n e type of flower. It p r o d u c e s only o n e flower p e r eye
near the apex of the plant along the seams. It d o e s not show any sign of lateral
flowering. This species can only be propagated by seed and to p r o d u c e seed
two plants will be required, o n e of each sex. These plants are usually easy to
cultivate, provided that the compost is free draining and it is not overwatered
d u r i n g the resting season. A cristate form is in cultivation and available as a
grafted plant.

>

Euphorbia obesa ssp. obesa in habitat, South Africa

E. obesa s s p . symmetrica (still known as E. symmetrica). Similar to

the previous species b ut not usually as tall, and often larger in diameter. The
height is often about 6 cm but may be 10 cm o r more, and the diameter is
usually a b o u t 7 cm o n mature plants, and occasionally u p to 10 cm. The body

13
is generally eight ribbed, with angles m o r e p r o m i n e nt at the apex. The colour
is grey-green with transverse purple bands and narrow grooves cross these
bands at right angles. The sections are further divided by a row of small
tubercles. This species has a well developed tap root o r several roots of the
same approximate thickness and length. It is also unisexual. It differs from its
relative E. obesa ssp. obesa by producing u p to 1-5 cyathia from each flowering
eye. When only o n e cyathium is b o r n e , the rudiments of two or m o r e lateral
p e d u n c l e s are produced. Reproduction is by seed only and plants of each sex
are again required for seed production .

For details of changes to the naming of these species please refer to the E.S.G.
Bulletin Vol. 11, 1998, No. 3-

Euphorbia obesa ssp. symmetrica in habitat. South Africa.

E. meloformis. Although n o w divided into three forms ( fma. magna,

fma. falsa, and fma. meloformis ) and o n e subsp. (ssp. valida), for the
p u r p o s e s of this booklet 1 have treated this entry u n d e r the older identities of
just E. meloformis and E. valida. (See E.S.G. Bulletin Vol. 12, 1999, No. / ) .

E. meloformis. This is a small unisexual globose succulent u p to 12 cm

in diameter, spineless, with the main stem being usually solitary but sometimes
branched (branching seems a c o m m o n feature in cultivated plants). The body
has a depressed centre and 8 ribs, but occasionally u p to 12. It is green in colour
with oblique transverse, light green and purple brown or dark green bands;
occasionally it is entirely green. The angles are vertical, sometimes spiralled and
tubercled. Small, 1-3 mm long, quickly deciduous leaves produc e scars at
intervals along the angles. Cyathia are produced o n branched and forked
peduncles from the centre of the apex of the plant. Peduncles tend to persist o n
male plants and are deciduous o n female. Cyathia are green in colour.

14
 Euphorbia meloformis in habitat, South Africa.

E. valida. This species is similar to the previous one but is somewhat

taller in growth, being up to 30 cm high and 7.5-12.5 cm in diameter, with
marked angles, usually with a single body which is not depressed at the centre.
The body colour is dull green with paler narrow green bands, which become
brown or dark purple on the lower part of the body. The cyathia are produced
on cymes along the margins of the angles near the apex of the body The
peduncles are up to 2 cm or more long in the male but somewhat shorter in
the female plant and stand away from the body. They develop into three cyme
branches which may fork several times and which are persistent and can give
the plant an untidy appearance, but should be retained to exhibit the true
growth pattern. The cyathia have reddish tipped lobes and olive green glands.

E. susannae. This is another unisexual species comprising a central

stem and numerous short branches up to 3 cm in diameter. Both main stem
and branches are covered with elongated tubercles arranged along 12-16 deep
ribs. The species flowers in the autumn. If it is pollinated it does not produce
its seed pods until the next spring. In habitat only the tips of the main stem
and branches are visible, most of the plant being below soil level. In cultivation
it will grow quite happily above the compost, making in a few years a very
attractive plant in a half pot or pan.

These four species should not be a problem in cultivation for the beginner.
Since these species come from areas of South Africa where low temperatures
can occur, they should not need more than 8-10 °C in our winter.

15
 E. bupleurifolia. Perhaps o n e of the most desirable species from
South Africa. It is a spineless dwarf plant, usually single stemmed, 4-20 cm in
height and 4-7 cm in diameter. The stem is covered in p r o n o u n c e d tubercles
which are the remains of leaf petioles. The attractive, very variable green
leaves, which can be u p to 7 cm long and 2 cm wide, are p r o d u c e d at the apex
of the plant in early spring and persist until Autumn. The bright green cyathia
o n individual plants can be either bisexual o r male only. A very worthwhile
species to grow. Keep it dry in the winter and c o m m e n c e watering w h e n n e w
leaves start to appear.

Euphorbia bupleurifolia in habitat, South Africa.

There are many species with a central core and radiating arms, frequently
referred to as "Medusoid Species". Some of the most c o m m o n and easy to
grow are:

E. caput-medusae. From the Cape Town area of South Africa, this is

another spineless plant. It consists of a central stem with many short radiating arms,
the arms can be 1-2 cm in diameter and the whole plant can be some 50-70 cm in
diameter. Cultivated specimens rarely reach this size. The arms are covered in low
tubercles and the remains of old flower peduncles. The attractive cyathia have their
glands divided into fingers which are white in colour, whilst the remaining part is
green. Plants grown from rooted arms rarely develop into true specimens, the arm
tending to grow longer and longer. This species can only be reproduced satisfactorily
from seed. Similar species are: E. gorgonis, E. woodii, E. flanaganii. There are
cristate forms of these species available, the cristate part being variable. Some plants
have a cristate main stem with normal branches, others have cristate arms o n normal
stems. The naming of these species in nurseries can be a little suspect.

16
 •

liuphorbia caput-medusae in cultivation.

Euphorbia gorgonis in habitat, South Africa.

r
Similar in growth pattern but larger growing are the following two species:

E. inermis, which has tuberous roots which merge into a short main
stem and rings of erect to prostrate arms 1-1.5 cm thick, covered with
tubercles, which radiate from the main stem to form a plant up to 40 cm in
diameter. The species has dark green male and female cyathia on the same
plant which grow singly or in clusters at the end of the arms and are covered
in white fluffy wool.

E. esculenta, which is similar to E. inermis but is a larger growing

species and in habitat can grow up to 75 cm or more in diameter, the central
core or body being up to 20 cm in diameter and the radiating arms up to 55
cm in length and 5 cm thick. These arms are covered in tubercles and
persistent dried flower peduncles. The male and female cyathia grow in
clusters at the tips of the arms on the same plant and are attractive with their
white woolly appearance. Both species are suitable for greenhouse culture.

v'rBnaBr i r a T ,
Euphorbia esculenta in habitat, South Africa.

There are other similar species with globose bodies and prominent arms that
are both more difficult to obtain and grow. A few of these are:

E. arida. A cylindrical stemmed plant 4-5 cm in diameter and usually

solitary, but can be branched. The upper part of the stem is covered by 5-6
angled, tubercled, radiating branches, which may be erect or spreading. The
persistent remains of cyathia pedicels give it the appearance of having spines.
The cyathia are carried on peduncles 6-8 mm long, and have dull green-
reddish bracts and glands which are dull olive green in colour. Closely related
to E. fusca and E. decepta.

18
 E. braunsii. This species comprises a fleshy root from which grows a
main s h o o t which can p r o d u c e several side shoots, which are at first
unbranched. The shoots can, with age, branch and re-branch, causing the
plant to form a c l u m p . The cyathia are dark green in colour with toothed edges
to the glands, and appear singly o r in twos, or even threes, at the e n d of the
shoots o n short pedicels, which may be persistent after flowering is over.

E. fusca. This species has a spherical main stem, growing to 30 cm in

diameter and 20 cm long, which merges into a long root. From the globose
main stem grow many lateral, r o u n d , tubercled branches u p to 15 cm long and
1 cm thick. These die off from the base of the stem towards the t o p and in
habitat are brownish red. Cyathia are small and grow singly o n short stalks 2
cm long, the stalks persisting after seed has b e e n set. Cyathia glands are b r o w n
and with toothed edges.

.^<
-'"
* t

fc
y¡¡5áL
Euphorbia fusca in habitat, South Africa.

E. namibensis. As the n a m e indicates, this species comes from the

Namib desert. It grows to a height of 30-35 cm, the thick main stem growing
from a large carrot shaped root. The stem is covered by 3 cm long, tubercled
branches. Cyathia are b o r n e o n 12 m m long pedicels. This is a difficult species
to grow and is rarely seen in cultivation. Great care is n e e d e d w h e n watering.
Propagation is by seed only.

19
 E. crassipes. This dwarf spineless species has a thick main stem, 10 -
15 cm high and about the same in diameter, with a flattened top. From the
apex grow several rows of branches up to 6 cm long and 1-1.5 cm thick., the
diameter of the whole being up to 15 cm in diameter. Cyathia grow on
peduncles which persist after flowering and seed production. The cyathia are
coloured green.

Euphorbia crassipes in habitat. South Africa.

E. hórrida has a cactus like

appearance. It can grow up to 1 metre
plus in height, with stems 10-15 cm
thick. The plant branches from the base
to form a clump. The stems are deeply
ribbed and have some 14 angles. The
abundant spines are the remains of
peduncles which have borne flowers or
were sterile. These spines are produced
in clusters of three with one central
fertile peduncle producing a dark red
cyathium with one sterile peduncle on
each side. There are several forms from
which to choose. Perhaps the most
attractive is the "striated" form, with its
banded grey and green stems.

E. hórrida in habitat, South Africa.

20
 E. pofygona. This is a close relative to the previous species, b u t is
somewhat taller and slimmer in its growth pattern. Stems can be u p to 1.5 m
in height and 10 cm thick and new stems grow from the base to form clumps,
with stems of differing lengths. The spines again are the remains of old
peduncles. In habitat a near spineless form exists, but I d o not know if it is in
cultivation. There are also several varieties, which include a plain green, and
also a near white form, as well as the striated form. It is well worth seeking out
and growing the m o r e unusual varieties. These last two species can grow to
large proportions, but will take several years to reach a size that is a problem
in the g r e e n h o u s e .

Some o t h e r smaller growing species to consider from South Africa are:

E. globosa, which consists of a t u b e r o u s root stock with many globose

and cylindrical branches, which grow joined to each other. Clumps can grow
u p to 7 cm in height and 15 cm o r m o r e across. In habitat the tubercled
branches are at o r just below soil level and the attractive cyathia are b o r n e o n
long and short peduncles, the short o n e s p r o d u c i n g o n e unisexual flower and
the long o n e s u p to three male flowers. The glands are broken u p into finger-
like sections with a white margined depression o n the u p p e r side, giving the
cyathium a crown-like appearance. This species is well w o r th growing for this
feature. It can be grown from rooted branches but in this case a true root stock
is not formed and the plant may not develop well and may not grow
vigorously.

S-

r
Euphorbia globosa in cultivation.

21
 «
.
;¡

Euphorbia globosa in habitat, South Africa.

E. pseudoglobosa. This plant has a similar appearance to E. globosa.

The stems start by being globose but elongate with age and arise from a
tuberous tap root, the whole plant being almost buried, with only the tips of
the stems showing above soil level. The stems display 5-7 angles and are
covered in shallow tubercles. It is normally spineless but occasionally
peduncles may persist. Cyathia are produced crowded together on the ends of
the stems. Plants are unisexual. Like E. globosa this species can be grown from
rooted stems, but a true tuberous root is rarely formed.

E. pubiglans. This is a single or occasionally branched plant, which

can grow to a height of 30 cm. It develops a crown of leaves 2-4 cm long and
3-5 mm wide. Single cyathia, coloured green, appear on hairy stalks 2-6 cm
long, The nectar glands are also hairy - hence the name pubiglans - "Hairy
Gland".

E. ferox. A much branching, clump forming plant, with stems up to

30 cm in length and 3-4. cm thick. Stems are light green in colour with
rounded ribs. Strong spines, which are modified peduncles, can be straight or
slightly curved and reach a length of 3-4 cm. A similar but smaller growing
species is E. aggregata. (See page 23 for an illustration of E. ferox)

E. mammillaris. Another freely branching species, with many stems 5

cm thick and 20 cm in length. The stems are many angled and covered in
tubercles. Spines 1-2 cm long are carried in bands along the stems. Clumps of
up to 1 meter or more in diameter occur in habitat. There is, in cultivation, a
very attractive variegated variety.

11
 5: i%m ?*>ZS.

m
u
o

W
Euphorbia ferox in habitat at Graaff Rcinet, South Africa.

E. pulvinata. This species forms dense clumps of 1-2 metres across.

The branches are up to 15 cm long and 3-4 cm thick. The spines are modified
peduncles, and grow along the 7-10 angles of the stems. It is closely related to
E. ferox and E. aggregata.

E. aeruginosa forms large low growing clumps of many thin stems

which in habitat can reach several metres across. This is a very attractive
species to grow. The copper green coloured stems can be up to 20 cm or more
in length and 1 cm thick and are sometimes spiralled. Pairs of spines with two
smaller prickles grow from copper brown spine shields and are up to 2 cm
long, they are coloured reddish brown to yellow and clothe the stems. Many
bright yellow cyathia are produced near the ends of the stems. Several forms
of this species are in cultivation, variation being in stem thickness and
colouration. A close relative is E. schinzii.

For those collectors who like plants with a caudex there is a wealth of species
to choose from. Some have succulent branches which persist, others have
deciduous leaves.

E. stellata. This is a species with a large tuberous root which

continues as a main stem. From the apex grow many spiny, flat, sometimes
three angled, branches, up to 15 + cm long. These grow in a star like fashion,
hence the name. Cyathia may be bisexual and appear singly or may appear in
groups of three consisting of a central male with a bisexual one on each side.

23
 1•

' f

•
N

Euphorbia
"v in habitat, South
stellata Africa.

E. squarrosa forms a thick u n d e r g r o u n d caudex 15-20 cm long and

4-15 cm thick. From the apex grow many erect and prostrate, radiating
branches, which can be 3-5 angled, bu t m o r e usually 3- These branches can
grow u p to 15 cm in length and u p to 2 cm thick, and have tubercles which
carry a pair of t h o r ns u p to 6 mm long. Cyathia are p r o d u c e d in g r o u p s of
three with a central male cyathium and a bisexual cyathium o n either side.

E. micracantha. This is a quite variable species, with a t u b e r o u s root

which can grow u p to 15 cm in length and 7 cm in diameter. From the apex of
this root emerge many horizontal, radiating arms, which can attain 14 cm in
length and 1.5 cm in thickness. These arms are normally four angled and
slightly tubercled, with paired spines 3-6 m m long growing the full length of
the stems along the stem angles.

E. tortirama. This species is a dwarf succulent comprising a tuberous

root and main stem which are subterranean. The tuberous root can grow to 20
cm in diameter and from this may grow up to fifty twisted branches; the twisting
may be either way, clockwise o r anti-clockwise. These branches are also
constricted at various points with age, growing to 30 cm long and 2-4.5 cm thick.
Three angled tubercles carry a pair of spines. Cymes of three yellow cyathia are
produced from the flowering eyes and grow from the winter months into spring.

E. persistens. Growing from Mozambique d o w n into the Northern

Cape (Transvaal), this species has a succulent main stem which is a
continuation of the t u b e r o u s root. The body can be u p to 30 cm long and 15
cm thick near the top, and can be simple or divided into two or m o r e short

24
stems. From these stems grow erect or prostrate, 3-5 angled branches, usually
4 in number. These branches are 10-20 cm long and with age become
constricted into segments. Tubercles carry light brown, paired spines, which
are sometimes tipped with red. The yellow cyathia are carried on cymes
growing from near the tips of the branches and are arranged in threes, with the
central one being male and two lateral ones being bisexual.

Euphorbia persistens in cultivation

E. groenewaldii. Closely related to the previous species, it has a
tuberous root ending in a short main stem, from which three to seven
branches are produced. Branches grow to 15 cm long and 2-3 cm thick and
are 3 angled, tubercled and spirally twisted. They are an attractive bluish-
green colour, sometimes with light green or cream markings, and can turn
reddish brown during the cold drier months. Spines 3-10 mm long are
produced in pairs at the end of the tubercles. Three, or very occasionally four,
cyathia are produced from each flowering eye, the first to develop being the
central one, which may be male or bisexual; the others, all bisexual, develop
later.

E. silenifolia. This is a unisexual tuberous rooted plant, 2-5 cm in

diameter and 10+ cm long, producing a few very short stems above ground.
Leaves are produced at soil level on petioles 1-10 cm long. The leaves are 2.5-
10 cm long and 2-12 mm wide, often slightly folded along the length. Umbels
of green cyathia with dark brown glands are produced from the axils of the
leaves.

E. tuberosa. This species is a caudex plant with large leaves. It has a

tuberous root and almost no main stem. It produces a number of short stems
from which grow the large leathery leaves on petioles 1.2-4 cm long. The

25
leaves are up to 5 cm long and 2.5 cm broad. Flowering peduncles 2-5 cm long
with an umbel of 2-4 cyathia are produced, which are quite attractive and bear
very large green bracts.

E. trichadenia. In habitat the caudex of this species grows below soil

level, with a short neck - like stem, from which 2-10 cm long, thin stems grow
above ground and rebranch. Thin slightly fleshy leaves up to 6 cm long and I-
5 mm broad are produced on the unbranched parts of the stems. Cyathia are
solitary in the forks of the stems and sometimes 3-5 cymes with short
peduncles are produced. The glands have attractive fringed lobes giving the
cyathia a crown like appearance similar to those oíE. globosa.

It should perhaps be mentioned that these tuberous rooted species can be

tricky to grow in cultivation and watering should only take place when the
plants start to grow This can only be learnt by close observation of the plants.
It is also a problem that some are winter growers in Europe.

So which species not to grow? Opinions may differ, but I would suggest E.
triangularis, E. cooperi, E. ingens, E. evansii, E. sekukuniensis and E.
tetragona, which are all tree species and although as young seedlings they are
attractive, they can soon lose their charm. Similarly E. hamata, E. ledienii
and E. caerutescens are not recommended as they can grow into large
shrubs.

Madagascan Species
There is a great wealth of plants from Madagascar. The problem here is that
most of these will require a higher winter temperature than the South African
species and more moisture to keep them in good condition. The most
common species to be found are plants from the "milii" group, in which there
are at least twelve varieties and various hybrids from which to choose. The
spiny stems vary considerably in diameter from very thin to quite thick. [Link]
shapes also vary and colour of the cyathia ranges from almost white to quite
dark red.

E. milii var. htslopii This is a large growing, thick stemmed species

which branches quite strongly and can grow up to 1-2 metres tall. Stem and
branches can be 3-6 cm thick. The leaves appear at the tip of the main stem
and at the tips of the branches, they are 10-18 cm long and 5 cm wide,
becoming brilliant red before being shed. The large red cyathia are borne on
stalks 5-10 cm long.

E. milii var. splendens (Sometimes called E. splendens) has much

thinner growing stems. It can form a shrub some two metres in height,
branching from the base. Spines up to 2 cm long are produced on the main
stem and branches. Bright green leaves 5 cm long and 2 cm wide are produced
near the tips of the stem and branches. Vivid red or yellow cyathia are carried

26
o n a multi-branched inflorescence. This species, if grown in warm, light
conditions, will flower and retain its leaves t h r o u g h o ut most of the year,
making it suitable for houseplant culture.

E. milii var. roseana. This is a smaller growing variety 80-100 cm tall

with erect branches, which are thorny at first, but later, after the t h o r ns have
b e e n shed, b e c o m e s m o o t h and greyish. Leaves are mid green and grow near
the tips of the main stem and branches. Each inflorescence bears four whitish
-yellow cyathia, which makes it an attractive plant.

E. milii var. tananarivae is a close relative to the var. hislopii but is

less spiny and has slightly t h i n n e r stems and branches, which can be 2-3 cm
thick and leaves 7-10 cm long and 3-4 cm wide. The cyathia are an attractive
yellow colour with a red border.

A form o f f . milii with variegated leaves is now available, as also are hybrids
such as E. milii x E. lopbogona, all of which are quite worthwhile growing as
houseplants. If grown in this way, flowers will be p r o d u c e d virtually all the year
round.

E. capsaintemariensis. This is a choicer species but not difficult to

grow. It has silver grey bark and resembles a bonsai tree. Its reddish green
leaves and olive green cyathia can be retained t h r o u g h o u t the year if kept
warm and given a little water in the winter.

^-%*
-•* /S

Euphorbia capsaintemariensis in cultivation.

E. millotH is o n e of the easier and nicer species to grow. It forms tight

clumps of stems which grow from the base. The stem colour is greenish red
turning to grey with age. Its growth habit should be to flower first with
p e n d u l o u s wine red cyathia followed, w h e n these fade, by attractive, large
lanceolate purple-red leaves. This species can be easily propagated from
cuttings.

27
 Euphorbia millotii, a young plant in cultivation.

E. guiltauminiana. This species can grow up to 70 cm high and 1

metre in diameter, with many branches forming a hemispherical bush (plants
are much smaller in cultivation). Attractive pink bordered green sessile leaves
are arranged at the tips of main stem and branches in terminal rosettes.
Cyathia, which are borne near the apex of the branches, may be yellow or red.
Reputed to be difficult in cultivation.

'*

/ liiiilhiitminiana in cull
:• •
28
 E. horontbensis has three angled thorny stems 2-3 cm thick which
may grow up to one metre in height, forming a thorny shrub. Thorns are
flattened and broad at their base, 8-15 mm long. The leaves are red edged and
crowded into rosettes at the tips of the branches. The much branched
inflorescences can have 20-40 reddish-brown cyathia.

E. ankarensis. This is an attractive species which produces

unbranched, corky grey stems up to 70 cm tall and 4 cm thick (the plant shown
here is a very unusual branched specimen). Tiny thorns form near the growing
point but soon disappear. This plant produces many pendulous cyathia, which
are coloured pink with red margins, on short stalks. Slightly hairy faced leaves
are produced in clusters after the cyathia fade.

••

r~

Euphorbia ankarensis in cultivation.

E. neohumbertii is another species which blooms before it produces

its leaves and is characterised by its dark green unbranched stems, with white
scars where the large bluish green leaves have been. Thorns and spines are
arranged along the five angles of the stem. The cyathia are numerous and
bright red, grouped at the apex of the stem. There are forms of this species in
cultivation which have spirally twisted and branched stems. These have smaller
leaves and yellow - green cyathia.

29
 E. leuconeura has a much branched main stem, both the main stem
and branches being four angled, each angle being clothed in attractive brown
bristles. The leaves are a soft green colour and the yellowish-green cyathia
appear in threes. (Some authorities think that E. neobumbertii is only a variety
of this species.)

E. lopbogona. This species is usually a single stemmed plant,

although occasionally it will produce branches. The stem and branches have
five sides, the angles of which are covered in brown teeth, which are the
outgrowth of the epidermis. The leaves are thick and coloured emerald
green with white veins. They are not deciduous and the plant can retain
them for several years. Leaves are arranged as a terminal rosette and also
cover the lower parts of the stem. The cyathia arise from the axils of the
leaves on long stalks and are white-reddish. (Both E. leuconeura and E.
lopbogona will easily produce seed which will sow itself in surrounding pots
and germinate easily),

E. viguieri. There are several varieties of this species, all of which are
usually unbranched and have columnar ribbed stems up to 1,5 metres tall and
5 cm thick. The stems carry strong rib spines which also divide into smaller
spines. The size of the spines varies according to the variety. Large leaf scars are
formed when the bright green, reddish stemmed leaves fall. The cyathia are a
shiny reddish colour and are produced on sub-sessile or stalked inflorescences
which appear before the leaves. Recognised varieties are: var. ankara-
fantsiensis, var. capuroniana, var. tsimbazazae, var. viguieri and var.
vilanandrensis. All varieties should be watered sparingly in the leafless state. E.
viguieri var. capuroniana is a very nice large spined attractive species to grow.

E. platyclada. This species can form a bush 30-50 cm high in habitat

but in cultivation is much smaller growing. It has many prostrate or upright,
flattened stems, which are an attractive grey-violet mottled colour. Older stems
may exhibit a scaly, peeling, waxy layer. The stems will branch at soil level and
also along the length of longer and older stems. Short lived minute leaves, less
than one mm in length, are borne on the stems. There is also a variety hardyi
which has much thinner stems and is more upright in growth.

E. cyltndrifolia. This species forms dense mats of numerous erect or

semi-erect stems. The stems are covered with leaf scars and tiny deciduous
bristles. Each stem carries a rosette of cylindrical reddish green leaves that are
grooved on the upper side and are up to 3 cm in length, with slightly bent up
tips. The cyathia are either single or in a two flower cyme borne near the tips
of the stems and are grey-violet in colour. Two subspecies are recognised, ssp.
cytindrtfolia, which is characterised by its underground runners and forms
mats and ssp. tuberifera, which has a caudex up to 10 cm in diameter and
produces numerous stems. Both can be propagated from cuttings but cuttings
from ssp. tuberifera are unlikely to produce a caudex.

«i
 Euphorbia cylindrifulia ssp. tuberifera in cultivation.

E. decaryi. This species is similar to the previous one but has thicker
stems which grow above ground. They are angular in section and have
numerous bristles that merge into a wavy, wing-like structure along the edges
of the stems. The stem colour is whitish to whitish brown. Leaves of this
species are very fleshy and wavy, the upperside being reddish brown and the
underside silver grey and they are 3-5 cm long, 1 cm wide. The cyathia are
carried on short peduncles and coloured greenish yellow with a red border.
There are four varieties of E. decaryi: var. ampanihyensis, var. decaryi, var.
robinsonii, and var. spirosticha. Plants offered for sale are usually just labelled
E. decaryi.

E. francoisii. Plants of this species have a fleshy main root and rooted
stolon-like stems. The leaves are very variable in shape and are borne in a
rosette at the tip of the stems at soil level, they are 4-6 cm in length and 2-3 cm
wide. The variety in leaf shape and colour make this an interesting species for
the collector. Inflorescences are produced at the tips of the stems and carry 2-
8 yellowish green cyathia. This species is readily propagated from cuttings.
Varieties crassicaulis una francoisii are recognised.

E. alfredii. This species is similar to E. ankarensis but has a more-

compact growth habit and its leaves are glaucous or only barely pubescent.
The brown - olive green cyathia appear before the leaves are produced.

E. pacbypodioides is usually a single stemmed plant, but may branch

occasionally. It grows up to 50 cm tall with a main stem 5 cm in diameter. The
stem colour is an attractive grey, covered with spirally arranged leaf scars.
Small thorns 0.5 mm long are also present. The leaves are an attractive colour,
being dark green on the upper surface and wine red on the underside. They
are deciduous and grow near the apex of the stem. Twenty to forty dark purple

31
cyathia are p r o d u c e d o n a multi branched inflorescence. A very nice and easy
species to g r o w

E. primulifolia. This is a small caudex species, the caudex being

buried below soil level in habitat. In the rainy season a rosette of large, bright
green, primrose shaped, leaves are p r o d u c e d o n a short stem, bu t with the
c o m m e n c e m e n t of the dry season these leaves die off and the red-whitish
cyathia a p p e a r in g r o u p s of 2-4 o n a short stem. A desirable species, bu t m o r e
care in cultivation is required.

Euphorbia _-•
primulifolia in leaf and flower.

E. quartziticola. This is a n o t h e r caudiciform species, similar to E.

primulifolia but with a larger caudex root system. The leaves are p r o d u c e d o n
a short stem and are yellowish green in colour with a red edge. The cyathia are
b o r n e o n a short p e d u n c l e and are l e m o n yellow. Again this species is m o r e
difficult to grow, and this and the previous species must, in their leafless state,
be allowed to rest. Both species can only be g r o w n from seed.

A t e m p e r a t u r e of 8-10 °C is advisable for safe overwintering of all species from

Madagascar, but some growers r e c o m m e n d 10-12 °C and a c o m p l e t e winter
rest for the leafy varieties w h e n they have shed their leaves.

West African S p e c i e s
From West Africa c o m e a small g r o u p of plants that are of interest to the
collector. They also represent a challenge to gro w well and are quite rare, and
are therefore worth obtaining if offered for sale.

E. poissonii. This species from Ghana and Nigeria forms a much

branched shrub u p 1.6-4 metres tall, branching from the base and also

32
rebranching. The colour of the stem and branches can range from silver-grey
to brownish-white. Branches are 3-5 cm in diameter. The large fleshy green
leaves are produced in a rosette at the ends of the main stem and branches.
Cyathia are large and bright green or yellowish green, borne on short
peduncles. It is quite a slow growing species.

E. unispina. Coming from the Sudan, Nigeria and Ghana, this species
is similar to E. poissonii. It forms trees up to 4 metres in height, with compact
branching, branches being 16-22 mm in diameter. Largefleshygreen leaves are
grown on the tips, often rounded, two-lobed and curly at the margins. Cyathia
are small and red in colour. This species needs good drainage, warmth and
careful watering in the growing season. Seed is rarely available. Propagation by
cuttings is a long and difficult process.

E. venenifica comes from the Ivory Coast and is a succulent shrub up

to 2 metres in height, branching from the base. Stems are cylindrical and 2-3
cm in diameter. Flat tubercles in spiral rows cover the stems and each tubercle
produces a single spine. The attractive leaves, 4-7 cm long and 1-3 cm across,
grow in clusters at the branch tips.

E. baga. A very rare caudiciform plant, growing to 15 cm tall and 4 cm

in diameter. It produces short branches with leaves up to 20 cm long and 2-4
cm wide, slightly fleshy, with wavy pink edges. One of the rarest plants in
cultivation.

These species will all require more heat and care to grow well in cultivation.
Keep dry in winter. A suggested winter temperature is 10-12 °C.

East African Species

This area is very rich in some of the rare gems of the genus. From Somalia,
Ethiopia, Yemen and Arabia we can find species which are more difficult to find
and grow.

E. turbiniformis. This desirable species is a small growing,

leafless, spherical plant about 4 cm high and up to 6-8 cm in diameter,
tessellated, with a depressed centre and usually with only one growing
point. In cultivation however, more than one may be produced. Cyathia are
minute and yellow in colour. Sometimes plants oí E. turbiniformis may be
obtained from nurseries but it is a rarity and likely to remain so for some
time to come.

E. piscidermis. This is a small growing plant from Ethiopia and is

one of the most attractive and unusual species, with its 4-5 cm diameter
body. It is covered in closely packed tubercles, which give it the appearance
of being covered in fish scales. Small inflorescences are produced around
the top of the body, from the axils of the tubercles. These consist of one

33
male and two bisexual cyathia. E. piscidermis is readily available as a grafted
plant and can, with great care, be grown on its own roots.

Y
%

J #
Euphorbia turbiniformis in cultivation.

Euphorbia piscidermis in cultivation.

34
 E. muttictava. This is a very rare species from Northern Somalia,
which starts out as a single stem and then branches dichotomously to form
a clump. The stems can be 6-12 cm long and 2-3 cm in diameter, with up to
16 ribs. It is quite uncommon in cultivation and is difficult both to obtain
and to grow. Propagation is usually by cuttings.

E. mosaica. This again comes from Somalia, forming small clusters

of branches from a main stem that grows to 5 cm tall and 1-2 cm thick. It
produces many short branches that can rebranch, and are 6-9 angled and
bear small tubercles from which a pair of small downward facing spines
grow. Quite rare in cultivation, this species needs warmth and very good
light. Avoid excess moisture and propagate from cuttings.

E. sepulta from Somalia, is a tuberous rooted species which grows

as a mat of short stems, the tips just protruding above soil level. Plants can
grow to 30 cm in diameter. Very slow growing, it does not tolerate excess
moisture and needs very good light and warmth in cultivation. Propagate
from cuttings.

—
. *

«P
A -
Euphorbia sepulta in cultivation at the Huntington Botanical Gardens.

E, gymnocalycioides. From Ethiopia, this is one of the curiosities of

the family, a plant that resembles the Cactus genus Gymnocalycium with its
numerous "chins", possibly growing to 10 cm in height and 7.5 cm in diameter.
Cyathia are very small and unattractive. Now readily available as seedlings or
grafted plants.

35
 E. hadramautica. From Ethiopia, Somalia a n d Yemen, this
Euphorbia is a small growing species with stems u p to 12 cm long and 1-3 cm
thick. The stem is covered with leaf scars arranged in a spiral fashion. The
d e c i d u o u s leaves are 3-9 cm long and 0.5-1.5 cm across. This species is very
difficult to grow and keep in cultivation and is also hard to grow from seed.
Grafting may be the answer to keeping this plant alive.

E. brunellii comes from Sudan, Ethiopia, Uganda and Kenya and is a

dwarf t u b e r o u s rooted species, which p r o d u c e s its cyathia before its leaves.
The cyathia are o n a stem 2 cm long, b r a n c h e d to form a two-pronged fork,
each bearing a pinkish buff cyathium, with brownish-yellow glands.

E. rubella. From Ethiopia, this dwarf species forms a caudex u p to 5

cm tall and 3 cm in diameter. The stem tip p r o t r u d e s just above soil level and
p r o d u c e s leaves that rest o n the ground , 2 cm long and 1 cm across, which are
vivid green in colour above and dark crimson below. Cyathia are p r o d u c e d o n
short p e d u n c l e s which may branch once or twice and are pinkish-white in
colour. The glands are brownish.

E. monadeniotdes. From the Sudan, this is o n e of the rarest species

in cultivation. Plants are t u b e r o us rooted with branche d rhizomes, which are
4 cm thick and u p to 15 cm long. The erect subterranean main stems can be
in excess of 5 cm high with horizontal spreading branches. Cyathia are
p r o d u c e d before the leaves, and are b o r n e o n simple or sparsely branche d
cymes with peduncles 33-3-7 cm long, with b r o w n glands. Possibly o n e of the
most difficult species to g r o w

E. greenwayi. From Tanzania, this is a spiny, bushy species which has

four angled bluish-green stems which are t o o t h e d and carry dark spines in
pairs. The cyathia grow in threes from each eye. Easily grown from cuttings in
cultivation, b u t care must be taken in winter.

E. fruticosa. A variable species with several forms, growing to 30 cm

o r m o r e in height and u p to 50 cm in diameter, branching from the base.
Branches can be u p t o 7 cm in diameter, with 10-13 ribs and are grey-green in
colour. Pairs of spines, red at first, turning grey with age, are 2 cm long and
grow along the stems. N u m e r o u s cyathia grow at the tips of the branches, and
may be red o r yellow. There are forms which are very small growing in
cultivation and these form low growing plants u p to 10 cm high and seem to
be very slow growing, taking several years to fill a 10-15 cm pot. These smaller
plants which are in cultivation and which were know n as E. fruticosa are n o w
recognized as a separate species named E. mcoyii.

36
 LiV

1
.
í

!S ï£

•
E. fruticosa in cultivation.

All East African species require a higher winter temperature of 10-12 °C and
great care in cultivation. Ideally they should be kept on a heated bed to supply
bottom heat during the worst part of our winter.

Kenyan Species
The plants from Kenya may not be very interesting to many collectors as they
are mostly of the thin stemmed spiny variety, and can present a problem for
many growers to keep as good specimens. The main problem is stem die back
during the winter, when moisture is withheld, and although it is natural for
this to happen in habitat, we tend to want a nice clean plant without dead
stems. However a few to try might be:

E. septentrionalis. This Kenyan species also comes from Uganda. It is

a densely branched plant with a thick, fleshy root. Branching is from the base,
but sometimes also higher up; the slightly toothed branches growing up to 15
cm long and are 5-8 mm thick. They may be erect, prostrate or even
stoloniferous and are greyish green, often with a dark longitudinal stripe. Pale
grey spines up to 15 mm long are produced at intervals along the branches and
bright yellow cyathia are produced on short stems.

37
 Euphorbia septentrionalis in habitat, Kenya.

E. samburuensis is a n o t h e r species with a thick fleshy root and

untidy branches which can grow to 90 cm long and 1-2 cm thick. They are
greyish green in colour but darker along the angles of the stems. Slightly
curved strong spines, 2.5 cm long, grow at intervals along the stems. Cyathia
are small and bright yellow.

E. glochidiata. This is a small growing spiny s h r u b with a fleshy root,

stems growing upright, 30 cm long and u p to 1 cm thick. The stems are grey-
blue-green. Leaves are s p o o n - s h a p ed and soon fall. Cyathia in threes are
formed in the leaf axils o n short stalks, the centre o n e is male and the t w o
outside o n e s female. They show dark purple nectar glands and carmine red
bracts.

E. uhligiana. Also known

from Tanzania, this is a
shrubby, fleshy rooted species
with four angled stems u p to
100 cm long which can be 1
cm or m o r e thick, usually
dark g r e e n in colour but
often attractively variegated
with paler green. Stems are
sharply t o o t h e d along the
angles and pale grey spines
1.5 cm long are spaced along
t h e m . Yellow cyathia are
produced o n short stems.

38
 E. graciliramea. This is a small miniature spiny shrub, with a fleshy
root and n u m e r o u s 1 cm thick stems u p to 10 cm long, coloured grey-green
with a yellowish stripe. They are somewhat untidy, being erect, arched o r
prostrate. Spines u p to 2 cm long are p r o d u c e d along the stems. Leaves are
spoon-shaped and d e c i d u o u s . Cyathia are p r o d u c e d in the axils of the leaves
o n short stalks and are in threes, the central o n e being male and the
s u r r o u n d i n g o n e s h e r m a p h r o d i t e or female. Their colour is bright yellow.

E. baioensis is a spreading, s h r u b by species, which b r a n c h e s

profusely from the base. The greenish-grey stems are 2 cm thick with 8-10 ribs.
Very thin paired spines u p t o 1 cm long, red w h e n young turning black with
age, clothe the stems. Small leaves 0.7-1 cm long are p r o d u c e d and are
sometimes persistent, eventually hardening and forming a small prickle. Small
yellow cyathia are p r o d u c e d on individual cymes.

E. brevitorta is a caudiciform species well worth growing if it can be

obtained. It has a thick s u b t e r r a n e an root and branches with 2-3 c o n t o r t e d
stems, which can be 5-15 cm long, constricted into segments 1-2 cm long,
with small t h o r n s u p t o 7 m m long. Cyathia are p r o d u c e d in g r o u p s of three.
This is p e r h a p s o n e of the most desirable species from Kenya for the
enthusiast.

Most plants of these species offered for sale are r o o t ed cuttings and s o m e may
p r o d u c e a fleshy root stock but some may not. Typically E. brevitorta can be
propagated from cuttings b u t d o e s n o t seem to p r o d u c e a caudex, although it
d o e s branch and form a clump; unfortunately the arms tend to elongate and
d o not retain the short compact growth of a typical plant.

There are s o m e larger growing species such as E. wakefieldii, E. bussei and E.

candelabrum. These d o not lend themselves to g r e e n h o u s e culture, unless
o n e has a large g r e e n h o u s e !

Zimbabwean Species
There are s o m e choice plants to be found in Zimbabwe. The most sought after
are E. decidua and E. platycephala. Most other species are shrubby, spiny o r
tree sized species.

E. (loi vi This is a spineless species with a sub-globose main stem which

grows from the tapering root stock. The stem has a rounded top covered in
tubercles and is 5 cm thick, only 2-3 cm of it being above ground. Around the top
of the main stem grow 2-3 rows of branches, which arise between the tubercles.
They are erect and curved at the base, 3-15 cm long and u p to 2 cm thick, covered
in small tubercles. The branches dry u p with age and fall, new ones replacing
them at the crown. Small, soon deciduous, leaves form at the tips of the branches.
Solitary cyathia are produced on peduncles from among the leaves at the apex of
branch tips. This species can also be found in the Northern Cape (Transvaal).

39
 E. decidua. A caudiciform species, producing a number of spiny
branches, 12 cm long and 6 mm thick and triangular in section, becoming
deciduous. The cyathia are produced from the centre of the caudex before
the stems are produced. Its mode of growth should be to flower first and
then produce its stems. If grown from seed this species, on germination,
produces the normal cotyledons some 1.5 cm in length. With the onset of
the second year's growth the plant produces a pair of large (3 cm long and
7.5 mm wide) leaves and later in the same growing period or the following
year replaces them with the spiny branches - an unusual mode of growth
amongst Euphorbias. In cultivation the stems can persist longer than in
habitat. It is possible to root the stems of this plant and with luck they will
produce cyathia. This can be a method of obtaining seed of this rare
species.

Euphorbia decidua in habitat, Zimbabwe.

E. platycephala. This species has a fleshy cylindrical rootstock, 20-30

cm in length and 2-4 cm in diameter. It produces annual stems up to 30 cm long
and from these grow leaves 5-6 cm long and up to 1 cm wide. Cyathia are
produced on peduncles 10 cm long and are green-yellow. It is only possible to
propagate this species by seed, and it is difficult to cultivate in Europe due to a
winter growing and summer resting requirement. It is extremely sensitive to
excess moisture in the dormancy period. A suggested minimum winter
temperature of 12 °C and very free draining compost is required.

,0
 E. monteiri can grow as a single stemmed or several stemmed plant,
spineless but often with persistent remains of peduncles. Stems, which grow
from the base, can be 30 cm to 4 metres in height and up to 5 cm in diameter,
and are covered in tubercles. Long, thin leaves 5-15 cm long and up to 3 cm
wide form on long stout peduncles at the end of the stems. The terminal
cyathia are produced on very long branching peduncles and are large and
attractively coloured purplish red. Below each cyathium are 2-3 leafy bracts
from which grow further lateral peduncles with cyathia. After flowering and
the setting of seed the peduncles can persist for a long time, giving the plant
an untidy appearance.

E. wildii. Similar to E. monteiri but stouter in growth with stems up

to 3 metres tall and 10 cm in diameter and a thick almost tuberous root. It
forms a sparsely branched shrub, the branches emerging from near the top of
the main stem, 5 cm in diameter and 30-40 cm long. Both main stem and
branches are covered with tubercles. Large leaves 12 cm long and 4 cm wide
are borne in a rosette at the end of the stem and branches. Cyathia are a bright
green or greenish yellow.

.-;.
-
*,....
*»•
• ?\

/
•

Euphorbia wildii in habitat, Zimbabwe.

E. schinzii. This is a small, shrubby growing species whose main

stem is a continuation of its fleshy root. It has a spreading habit, producing
numerous rhizomes which in turn produce many branches at ground level.
The four angled branches grow to 15 cm long and 8-10 mm thick and
occasionally rebranch. Paired spines grow along the branches and are 1-1.2
cm long and dark brown or grey. Many bright yellow cyathia are produced
along the stems. This is a very variable species and many forms are available,

ll
including a grey stemmed one. It has a very widespread habitat, from
Zimbabwe up into Kenya and across South Africa.

Most of the species from Zimbabwe are easily contained in a greenhouse.

Some to be avoided are E. cooperi, E. confinalis, E. fortissima, E.
halipedicola and E. lividiflora which are all shrubs or trees. E. malévola, E.
griseola, E. memoralis and E. persistentifolia are smaller growing shrubs
and can be contained within a greenhouse for a number of years and when
they finally become too large, cuttings can be taken and one can start off
again with a small plant.

Indian Species
India has a number of choice Euphorbias and these are quite rare in
cultivation. /:*. fusiformis, E. panchganiensis and E. khandallensis are all
plants with caudex root systems which can, in habitat, be quite large plants,
but when available to the collector are usually small seedlings only a few
centimetres in length and diameter. They make good subjects for the collector
who likes "lumps" set up in a pot. Care needs to be taken when watering,
which should be kept under control and only given when the plants show
active growth.

E. fusiformis. This is a large, tuberous rooted plant. Tubers can grow

to 70 cm long and 20 cm in diameter with all sizes in between, the size varying
with the type of soil, and age of the plant. The greenish yellow cyathia are
carried on long peduncles and appear in groups during March-April. Large
oval green leaves tinged red on the underside grow in May-June.

1
Euphorbia fusiformis: on the left, plant in habitat in India;
on the right, plants in cultivation.

Í2
 E. panchganiensis. This plant has an irregular cylindrical caudex up
to 25 cm long. It produces its reddish, purple pink cyathia on a short
peduncle in April-May. The attractive narrow, oval and fleshy leaves are
coloured purple, green or red and sometimes mottled and are produced after
flowering in May-June.

E. khandallensis. A tuberous rooted species, with the rootstock

growing to 30 cm long and 10 cm in diameter. This root may be simple or
branched. Cyathia are produced on peduncles which branch dichotomously 4
or 5 times and carry reddish-white cyathia.

E. vajravelui. This plant has flat or winged branches which give a

somewhat similar appearance to an epiphyllum. It is a cactiform shrub or small
tree up to 10 metres tall. The main stem and older branches may be 4 or 5
sided but the younger stems may be flat and two winged, occasionally three
winged at tips. Small spines 2-3 mm long are carried on the stems. Quickly
deciduous, small fleshy leaves grow along the stems. Cyathia, either solitary or
in groups of three, grow on the margins of branch wings. If in threes, the
central cyathium is male and the two outside ones are bisexual. Colour of
cyathia is greenish yellow.

E. epiphylloides. This species forms a tree 3-60-4.50 metres tall and

has a palm- like appearance, with a cylindrical main trunk and flat fleshy
branches. The branches are dark green on the upper surface and pale green
on the underside. Small, soon deciduous, leaves appear after the cyathia. The
cyathia are borne on short peduncles which arise at various intervals along the
stems and are coloured greenish-yellow or pink. This species comes from the
Andaman Islands and is quite rare and endangered in habitat and extremely
rare in cultivation. It is difficult to grow from cuttings, which take a long time
to root or indeed may not root. After care is extremely difficult.

E. neriifolia. Growing to a small shrub or tree 4.5-6 metres tall with

branches 2.5-3 cm in diameter with merging tubercles, this species has stems
with a jointed appearance, the length of the joints being variable. Stems can
carry black thorns up 1 cm long but can also be nearly thornless. Large green
leaves are produced in March-April after flowering and fall in autumn. The
cyathia are a deep pinkish red. Seedlings can show a marked variegation but
this usually disappears as the plant matures.

E. caducifolia. This is a very variable species but basically it is a shrub

up to 2 metres in height, with numerous branches which arise from the base.
The branches are 3-5 cm in diameter and circular in section. There are small
tubercles arranged in spirals, each tubercle bearing a black pad "similar to a
cactus aréole" from which emerge a pair of spines 5-9 mm long. Leaves vary in
shape from broad oval to narrow and also arise from the black pad. The branch
tips produce red cyathia.

43
 Euphorbia caducifolia in habitat, India.

E. nivulia. A large shrub some 6-7.5 metres high, with more or less
cylindrical branches. Small tubercles are spirally arranged along the branches
which produce sharp, paired spines and also large 15-30 cm long leaves.
Cyathia are produced in pairs. It is easily propagated from cuttings.

E. royleana. This tree Euphorbia grows up to 5 metres high with an

unusual branching pattern. Four upward curving branches grow from a single
point each time. They are segmented, 5-8 cm in diameter and have 5-7 angles
with flat spaces in-between. Deciduous leaves 10-15 cm long are produced at
the beginning of the rainy season, on the branch angles at the tip of the
branch, between two spines. These drop at the end of October leaving a
prominent scar. Cyathia are produced at the angles above the spines in front
of the leaf scar. This species can be propagated from cuttings without too
much trouble.

The last three species can grow quite quickly into large plants which may
become too large for the greenhouse, but one can always start a new specimen
by rooting a small cutting.

The American Species

This last group of succulent Euphorbias comes from the new world and most
are not very attractive for the collector. They are mainly shrubby plants with
thin, angled stems. A few to consider are:

E. sipolisii. This species grows into a shrub with strange segmented

four-angled stems one metre tall and one cm thick, grey-green in colour. The

44
segments are 10 cm long. Very small, quickly d e c i d u o u s leaves form at the tips
of the stems. The cyathia are dark red and quite attractive.

Euphorbia sipolisii showing the angled

stems. This growth is similar in the
American species E. weberbaueri, E.
pteroneura and E. phospborea.

Euphorbia antisyphtlitica in flower

Euphorbia ant i syphilitica in habitat

(Big Bend area of the U.S.A.)

E. weberbaueri. Growing in Peru, this plant forms a shrub u p to o n e

metre in height and the branches are 5-10 m m thick. They branch and grow
erect and are covered in ribs which form oblong-oval segments. Branches tend
to b e c o m e woody with age. This species is propagated by taking cuttings from
n e w growth.

45
 E. pteroneura is similar to E. sipolisii but with 4-6 angled stems,
reaching a height of 60-120 cm. The stems are 0.5 cm thick and coloured
bluish green. Small leaves are p r o d u c e d at the tips of the stems and soon d r o p .
The cyathia are coloured bright green to yellowish green. From Mexico, this
species is self-fertile and p r o d u c e s viable seeds. Propagates easily from cuttings
in a warm situation.

E. phosphorea. Named because it is r e p u t e d to glow o n warm nights,

it is similar to the above species. Growing as a tall shrub or small tree it can
attain a height of 6 metres bu t 2 metres is average. It can form a small t r u n k
b u t usually branches from the base. Stems can be from 1 to 3 cm thick and are
multi-ribbed giving them oblong-oval segments. Nodes, from which grow
small, s o o n deciduous, leaves, arise at the overlap of the angles. The stems are
green bu t often covered with a thick wax coating which t e n d s to give t h e m a
greyish-white a p p e a r a n c e. New growth is a bright wine-red colour. Each n o d e
can p r o d u c e u p t o t e n cyathia, which are quite large, being u p to 8 m m in
diameter and usually wine red, although green-red have b e e n recorded. The
glands have a strange horn-like shape and make a point of interest for a species
which is p e r h a ps otherwise of little interest.

E. antisyphilitica. From Texas and Mexico, this species is a shrub u p

to o n e metre plus in habitat. Stems are pencil thin, with small d e c i d u o us
leaves. The cyathia appear in g r o u p s of t h r e e and d u e to their five attractive
nectar glands coloured red - pink, give the impression of a flower with petals.
In the past a hard wax was p r o d u c e d from the wax coating of the stems, b ut
not from the latex sap. This wax was widely used commercially. See illustration
o n page 45.

E. mísera. Also from Mexico, w h e r e it grows o n hillsides, this species

has grey stems, which branch irregularly and round-oval leaves which it can
d r o p and re-grow d u r i n g its growing season if kept too dry. The flowers are
attractive with their white glands and a red spot. They are also slightly fragrant.
This is a succulent that could be "bonsaied".

There are some m o r e interesting species with t u b e r o u s root systems b u t these

are not widespread in cultivation. Amongst these are:

E. copiapina. This species, which comes from Chile, must be the

most attractive South American euphorbia , taking its n a m e from the Chilean
t o w n of Copiapo. It has a caudex root about 10 cm long and 3 to 4 cm in
diameter, the caudex being covered in a corky, grey-brown skin. A short stem
arises from below g r o u n d level a n d p r o d u c e s several ascending and spreading
branches, spirally arranged and 5-8 cm long; blue-green leaves are p r o d u c e d
in the growing season. The inflorescence is an umbel with a terminal cyathium
and side branches, the colour of the cyathia being a dark purple. Very rare in
cultivation.

K,
 E. radians. This species and its varieties originate from the
s o u t h e r n U.S.A. a n d Mexico. It c o m p r i s e s a t u b e r o u s r o ot which is s o m e 10-
15 cm long and 3-4 cm in d i a m e t e r for m o st of its length, b e c o m i n g b u l b o u s
at the base, 2 cm in diameter. The c a u d e x t e r m i n a t e s in a few flowering
stems roughly 15 cm long and 2 m m thick. Small thin leaves 2-3 cm long a n d
2 m m wide arc p r o d u c e d sparsely along t h e stems. A cyathium is p r o d u c e d
at t h e e n d of each stem a n d is pale white with o r a n g e s t a m e n s . Quite large
attractive w h i t e bracts s u r r o u n d each cyathium. This species is in the sub-
genus Poinsettia.

Information a b o u t these last two species is difficult to find as they are very
u n c o m m o n in cultivation and references to t h e m are also difficult to source.

Mo n a d e n i u m s

The genus Monadenium was created in 1895 by F. Pax to distinguish a

plant collected ten years earlier by an explorer in German East Africa and
named Monadenium coccineum. The n a m e Monadenium means "single
gland", which is a reference to the strange construction of the cyathium. This
structure consists of a small c u p shaped container with a notch or break in its
rim, a r o u n d which is a single thickened gland, or nectary, whose shape is like a
" horse shoe". There are two bracts, which in some species are large and
colourful, and, except for the notch, are fused together a r o u n d the rim, thus
giving the cyathium a zygomorphic appearance. The cyathium contains o n e
female flower which is exerted through the notch in the gland and hangs
d o w n w a r d s and also a n u m b e r of male flowers, usually five in number. These
plants are therefore monoecious. The cyathia are at first solitary, b ut gradually
develop into a cyme of three cyathia, the original o n e being terminal followed
by two lateral cyathia The colours range from white, pink and red, to pale
green-yellow.

' Monadenium cyathium

showing major parts.

Key:
a. Bracts.
J b. Gland.
c. Female flower.
d. Male flowers.

47
As with Euphorbias, all M o n a d e n i u m s have a white, irritant, p o i s o n o u s sap and
care should be taken w h e n handling them. Nearly the whole of the g e n u s
comes from Eastern Africa, from Mozambique to Somalia, with the majority
being found in Tanzania. Three species c o m e from West Africa. N o n e are to be
found in the Cape area. There are s o m e fifty species to c h o o s e from, and these
can vary from small stemless plants to trees over five metres in height.

M. lugardiae. O n e of the easier to grow species which has a wide

habitat ranging from South Africa to Botswana and Zimbabwe. It has 1.5-3 cm
thick stems and can grow t o 60 cm high. The fleshy leaves grow on the u p p e r
part o r at the stem tips. Cyathia are p r o d u c e d in cymes of three, pale green
outside, yellow-orange b r o w n inside. This species can be propagate d from
cuttings or seed. It should not be overwatered.

M. stapelioides. This is a fleshy plant with a t u b e r o u s root, and can

grow many upright stems, u p to 15 cm o r m o r e in length, w h e n they t e n d to
b e c o m e d e c u m b e n t. They are 1-2 cm thick and are covered with spirally
arranged tubercles which show leaf scars. The leaves are p r o d u c e d at the end
of the highest tubercles o n a stem. These are 2-3 cm long and 1-2 cm wide and
folded along the length. Cymes of three cyathia grow from the u p p e r m o s t leaf
axils, with bracts white to greenish white, often flushed pink, with a red gland.
This species is very easy to grow from cuttings, however, sometimes a single
stem roots and grows longer but does not p r o d u c e o t h e r stems. In this case
cut the stem a few cm above soil level and treat the cut surface to avoid disease
and it should grow o ut with m o r e stems.

Monadenium stapelioides in cultivation.

48
 M. yattanum. This species is a fleshy t u b e r o us r o o t ed plant, growing
many stems u p to 20 cm long. These are erect at first but b e c o m e prostrate as
they lengthen and are 1-1.5 cm thick and slightly tubercled. Leaves arc-
arranged sparsely at the e n d s of the branches and can be very colourful when
in full sun, becoming a d e e p p u r p l e with white veins. Cyathia are greenish with
p u r p l e stripes, and nectar glands yellowish green.

M. schubei grows stems which branch from the base u p to 45 cm in

length and 4-5 cm thick, covered with shallow tubercles. Leaves are fleshy, u p
to 6 cm long and 2 cm wide, often with wavy margins and veining. T h o r n s
appear in g r o u p s of 3-5 o n the leaf scars. Cyathia grow in g r o u p s of three and
are green with white margins. Nectar glands have whitish green o r pale red
margins.

Flowering stem of Monadenium schubei

M. ritchiei is a t u b e r o u s r o o t ed plant from Kenya. It has an

u n d e r g r o u n d root from which grow o n e or m o r e , occasionally branching
stems. The stems can grow u p to 40 cm in length and are u p to 2.5 cm
diameter. Large tubercles with 3-5 small spines cover the stems. This species
has thick d e c i d u o us leaves, coloured dark green above and light green o n the
u n d e r s i d e . The cyathia are p r o d u c e d in the u p p e r leaf axils and are a whitish
-green colour with pink veins, the gland being light red.

M. rhizophorum. A small t u b e r o u s, rhizome rooted species, this

Monadenium has thin cylindrical, upright stems, 4-10 cm long and 5-7 m m

49
thick, which grow from the rhizome. Small, thin, oval leaves up to 36 mm long
and to 2.2 mm wide grow from the stem tips, coloured green with purple
between the veins. Cyathia are whitish green with dark green lines and spots
and red blotches. A second variety exists, var. stolonifera, which is a small
caudiciform plant with thinner stems, growing at first upright and then
becoming prostrate, rooting and forming a new caudex. Both are easy to grow
provided they are not overwatered.

The above are easy to grow species and should not be a problem for the
average collector. The more difficult species to find and grow are plants from
the following:

M. ellenbeckii. From Somalia, Kenya and Ethiopia, this species grows

as a spreading, branched shrub, with a tuberous root. The erect or prostrate
stems can be 12-25 mm in diameter and grow to 1 metre in length (cultivated
plants do not reach this length). Small,fleshy,short lived leaves grow in spirals
along the stems and small scars are left when they drop. Cyathia are yellow and
are borne near the tips of stems. There is a smaller growing form, M.
ellenbeckii fa. caulopodium, which is nicer to grow in cultivation.

M. spinescens. Originating from Tanzania, this species can grow to

tree proportions with a main stem of some 6 metres in height. It is an
imposing species with its yellowish-brown peeling bark and fleshy leaves,
which grow at the tips of the main stem and branches. Three quite large spines
grow below the leaf scars. Cyathia, coloured pale green flushed with red, are
produced on multi-branched cymes. Very slow growing, this species is difficult
to propagate and must be kept warm in winter.

M. torrei is a species still quite rare in cultivation. It forms a multi-

branched shrub up to 3 metres in height, the stems and branches being 1.5-2
cm in thickness and brown coloured. The stems are tubercled when young but
these merge with age to give a smoother appearance. The attractive leaves are
borne at the tip of the main stem and branches. Cyathia are yellow in colour.
From Tanzania and Mozambique, Monadenium torrei is difficult to propagate
from cuttings.

M. elegans. From Tanzania, this species can grow into a shrub or small
tree, reaching a height of 3 5 metres, with a few branches. The main stem is
covered with a yellowish-brown peeling papery bark. Spines up to 18 mm long
grow below the leaf scars. Leaves 4 cm long by 3 cm wide grow at the tips of
the main stem and branches. Cyathia are greenish-white, with red glands
edged with white.

M. reflexum. This species has fibrous roots, with stems up to 35 cm

long and 6 cm in diameter, not often branched. The stems are densely covered
in narrowing, recurved tubercles 6-21 mm long, which point downwards.

so
Leaves are fleshy, 24 mm long and 8 mm wide and soon drop. Cyathia are
produced on an inflorescence which grows from the stem tips. They are
coloured yellowish-green tinged with pink. From Ethiopia and Kenya, this is a
difficult species to grow and dislikes excess water.

M. si c/led urn This species has one to several stems forming a small
shrub some 2 metres in height. The cylindrical stems are up to 5 cm thick at
the base, occasionally branching. The branches are covered with tubercles
which show two grooves along their length and leaf scars from the fleshy
leaves which are quickly deciduous. Two star-shaped clusters of spines are
borne on each tubercle. Cymes of cyathia are massed at the tips of branches,
coloured whitish-green with pale yellow glands.

There are many caudiciform plants to choose from, such as:

M. pedunculatum. A caudiciform species producing a tuberous root

up to 6 cm in diameter and growing 1-2 woody subterranean stems. It grows
1-4 annual stems, usually unbranched, up to 20 cm high. Large fleshy leaves
are grown on the stems. Cyathia are formed on cymes carried on peduncles 5-
8 cm long. The peduncles of the cyathia may be single or forked, carrying one
or two cyathia which are white or pink in colour.

M. catenatum. A species with a tuberous root that can be cylindrical

or subspherical and up to 2 cm in diameter, producing chains of tubers and 1
or 2 annual stems growing to 20 cm long, coloured purple, above soil level.
Leaves are 5 cm long and 1.5 cm wide. Cyathia are borne singly on peduncles
up to 12 mm long and coloured pink. It comes from Tanzania.

M. rubellum. A species that has a fleshy root forming clumps of

rounded tubers, 1.5-3 cm in diameter. Fleshy stems grow from each tuber, 5-25
cm long (often longer in cultivation), the length depending on whether they are
growing erect or prostrate. They are 4-5 mm thick and are striped purplish-
green. Leaves are 4.5 cm long by 1 cm wide, attractively flushed purple. Cymes
of red cyathia grow on 1-2 cm long, rose-pink peduncles (it is often still offered
as M. montanum var. rubellum). There is also the similar species, M.
montanum, which has stems 15 cm long and 5 mm thick, with leaves 4.5 x 2.5
cm The cyathia are whitish-green or pink tinged with a white midrib.

M. majus comes from Ethiopia and is a small plant and

uncommon in cultivation. From a small underground tuberous root grow
one, or possibly more, erect green shoots 10 cm or more in height.
Leaves are alternate and 9 5 cm long and 4.5 cm across. The cyathium has
large white bracts which are veined green, sometimes with a flush of red
on their outer edges. This is a really beautiful species to grow, but it does
not like cold or excessive moisture. It can be propagated by seeds or
cuttings.

si
Species which are easy to grow are M. spectabile, M. magnificum and M.
arborescens, but these are larger and faster growing species.

The cultivation of Monadeniums should not represent too much of a problem

other than maintaining a reasonable winter temperature of 8-10 °C. If this
cannot be achieved in the greenhouse, then plants could be taken into the
house to overwinter. One very important point is to ensure the removal of all
dead leaves and inflorescences from the plants. If left on they can be the cause
of mould or mildew, which even if it does not destroy the plant, will badly
disfigure it. Plants should not be encouraged to grow in late autumn or winter.
Late watering can result in the growing point exuding sap, which hardens and
is difficult to remove without the growing point being damaged. Then the
plant struggles to resume growth in the next season.

Sy naden Î inn
The genus Synadenium may not be of outstanding interest to the succulent
plant collector, as it comprises shrubby plants that can grow rather vigorously
and soon become a problem to accommodate. We grew one for a number of
years and it soon outgrew its home, becoming a plant two metres in height and
of equal spread. Synadeniums are closely related to Monadeniums, the
difference being in the glands of the cyathia, which are united into a single cup
and are divided into uneven segments by two to five notches, which do not
form separate glands. The cyathia are also larger and flatter, and are
monoecious i.e. having only male or female organs in any one flower, but
having both on the same plant. Plants bleed large amounts of caustic sap if cut
or damaged and care should be taken when handling them.

S. grantii. This is the most common species in cultivation, together

with its more attractive variety rubra. Both have succulent stems, branches and
leaves. The normal variety has green leaves with the mid rib often reddish,
whilst the variety rubra has purple-red leaves. The flower colour is red. This
species comes from Uganda, Tanzania and Mozambique.

5. cupulare. A species much rarer in cultivation, which comes from

Natal and the Transvaal, and which can grow to a height of one metre. It has
green stems and branches with large oval green leaves. The flower colour is
greenish yellow and the plant is said to be very
poisonous and known as the "Sheba Valley Death
Tree" (as noted by Martin and Chapman in their
book Succulents and Their Cultivation).

fatropha
The genus Jatropha is not very well represented
in cultivation, due mainly to the difficulty of
finding plants. Jatrophas come from Central and
South America, Africa, Arabia and India. It is a

52
genus of some 175 species, ranging from small plants to shrubs and trees. Not
all species can be described as succulent. They have complete flowers, which
have sepals and petals, which are at times showy. The flowers are usually
monoecious or sometimes (rarely) dioecious. They are gathered into multi-
branched dichasial inflorescences, in which the terminal female flowers are
surrounded by 7 to 20 male flowers. The succulent species appeal to the
enthusiast for their caudex shapes. These plants also have a watery latex sap,
which we should assume is equally dangerous as that of the other members of
the Euphorbiaceae. The flowers shown on page 52 are of/, podagrica.

J. podagrica comes from tropical Central America, and has a large

"bottle-shaped caudex", which may be single stemmed or branched. Large,
three-lobed leaves are produced in the growing season and bright red flowers.
This species has become naturalised in many of the warmer countries of the
world and is the most common in cultivation. It is now often sold in garden
centres as a house plant, with the main stem removed to ensure branching.

Jatropha podagrica in cultivation.

J. cathartica (still to be found under its old name of / .

berlandieri) comes from Northern Mexico and Southern Texas. It is a plant
with a caudex of 10-20 cm diameter. It grows annual stems of some 20 cm in
height with leaves 10 cm long and 6 cm wide, lobed and blue grey in colour,
and produces bright red flowers in the summer. Great care should be taken
when watering this species.

53
 f. macrantha from the Argentine and Peru is another more readily
available species. A single stem 2-3 cm thick and 20-30 cm tall, is branched and
with leaves some 9-10 cm long and 10-12 cm wide. It produces a few scarlet
flowers in summer. This species appears to attract red spider mite.

/ . pelargoniifolia is a shrub which may grow up to 1.5 metres tall,

but young plants or cuttings can be grown in a greenhouse for several years
before they become too large. This species has attractive peeling, papery,
brown bark. The plant exudes a clear yellow sap that turns red when cut or
injured and, as its name suggests, its leaves are similar to a Pelargonium.
Flowers are greenish white-yellow.

f. gossypiifolia from tropical America, Mexico and Peru, is a shrub up

to 3 metres tall, with leaves 13 cm long and 6-7 cm wide, bronze red to start
and turning reddish green with age. As the leaves fall, the stem and branches
tend to become bare. The flower colour is reddish purple. The main problem
with this species is that it can easily outgrow a greenhouse. Fortunately it
propagates easily from cuttings.

Jatropha cathartica (/. berlandieri) in cultivation

The problem with these plants is to ensure winter dryness during the resting
period.

54
There are plants in cultivation with the name Jatropba which are rather nasty
to handle, this being due to the leaves and branches bearing numerous
stinging hairs, much like our common nettle. The effect of these stinging hairs
can be mild to very unpleasant, with severe inflammation in some cases. These
species have now all been transferred to the genus Cnidoscolus. Perhaps the
best known of these is Cnidoscolus urens, formerly fatropha urens. It is a
tuberous rooted shrub whose name in Spanish, "Mala Mujer", means "Bad
Woman". It comes from Mexico and Peru. Great care should be taken if you
come across species of Cnidoscolus.

Pedilantbus
The genus Pedilantbus originates from California, Mexico and the West Indies.
Its eleven members all have a shrubby growth form, with cylindrical stems and
they also contain milky sap. The cyathia have a rather attractive appearance
similar to a small bird's head or a high-topped shoe tightly laced at the top.
The cyathium cup is enveloped by three shiny carmine red bracts of different
sizes, which are fused together and take the shape of a sack-like spur which
enfolds the nectar glands. The cyathia are monoecious, i.e. having only male
or female organs in any one flower, but both male and female flowers on the
same plant. Most species are easy to grow, but do not like high humidity, which
can cause them to succumb to mildew. The following two species are the only
ones usually offered for sale.

P. tithymaloides. Distribution from Central America into northern

South America and to the West Indies. Plants have upright zig-zag branches up
to one cm thick. It has long, oval, slightly succulent leaves and bright red
cyathia, which appear in clusters at the end of growing shoots. A much nicer
and more compact form is the variegated form of this species.

Pedilantbus tithymaloides in cultivation.

55
 P. macrocarpus. From Southern California and Mexico, it has slightly
hairy stems and leaves. The stems can reach a height of 1.5 metres. The
deciduous leaves are 10 cm long and 4 cm wide and the few cyathia which are
formed are red.

Cultivation of the succulent Species

Cultivation of the succulent species of the Euphorbiaceae should not cause the
enthusiast too much trouble. They will grow in most types of compost: soilless
or soil based compost seem to suit them equally well. Good drainage is
possibly the most important point to consider, although 1 note that there are
many young Euphorbias on sale in garden centres that are in what appears to
be pure peat and without a trace of drainage material. They arc all common
species such as E. enopla, E. aggregata, E. hórrida and several un-named
plants and they all seem to be growing quite well. As growers of a larger cross
section of species I think we should err on the side of current cultivation
techniques and grow them in reasonably open compost. I grow them all in
John Innes No.3 compost, and use two parts compost to one of small grit, to
provide an open, free draining compost. Feeding these plants seems to be a
mystery as I have yet to find a fertiliser that they respond to and I have tried
many on the market. Regular repotting does, however, seem to encourage
good growth. A good light is important in cultivation but care should be taken
to avoid scorching the plants in the greenhouse. Indeed the globular species
need very good light to maintain their shape. However, some of the
Madagascar varieties appear to grow better with a little shade. The problem
faced by all growers of these plants is the vast area that they occupy in nature,
and this causes the problem of species that want to grow in our winter, spring,
summer and autumn. These are all things that we must learn about our plants
and provide the best conditions possible.

Pests are not generally a major problem with plants of the Euphorbiaceae. One
may find the odd mealy bug or scale insect on plants and Jatrophas seem to
sometimes attract red spider mite, but all these problems can be dealt with by
using suitable insecticides. Fungus attacks are more difficult to control.
General cleanliness and the removal of dead leaves and inflorescences from
the plant bodies and containers will help to avoid the problem, but if it does
arise, a fungicide with contact and systemic action is a good treatment for
control. If a plant does not grow or looks sick it is a good idea to investigate
the root system. Most plant deaths start below soil level and Euphorbiaceae
seem to succumb very rapidly to root damage. If the rot or damage is not too
severe it can be cut away and the plant re-rooted. Greenhouse temperatures
are a difficult subject to be firm about. What one grower can get away with is
suicide for another. If you can afford it, then 8-10 °C is fine, if 6-7 "C is your
aim, then the less cold tolerant species could be kept in a heated propagator
or even overwintered in the house. A little water during the winter may be
advisable, but not enough to induce active growth.

ib
 Propagation
Many of the stemmed varieties can be propagate d from cuttings, the best time
to take cuttings being during the spring. Use a shar p knife to avoid damage to
the cutting and m o t h e r plant. Dip the cut e n d of the cutting into cold water to
wash off any surplus sap, spray the cut surface o n the m o t h er plant to stop the
bleeding, and then dip the cut end into p o w d e r e d s u l p h u r o r o t h e r agent to
stop infection. Avoid allowing the cut surface to form a layer of dried latex sap.
Place in a cool dry place for a few days, then p o t u p in moist compost and keep
in a warm place with good air m o v e m e n t Another m e t h o d to try is to place the
cutting(s) in a small glass jar half filled with water. The percentage of success
with this m e t h o d can be good, with rooting taking place quite rapidly. At o t h e r
times rooting may be very slow and the cuttings may rot at the cut surface. A
t e m p e r a t u r e of 16-18 °C seems to p r o d u c e good results. Some species will root
very quickly, others, as I have experienced, can sit for a long time before
rooting. Also some r o o t e d cuttings d o not make typical plants tor many years
and some will never p r o d u c e a true plant.

Growing from S e e d
Many species of Euphorbiaceae can be grown successfully from seed; in fact
this is the only way of propagating s o m e species. One of the major problems
is to obtain good viable seed. Generally speaking, fresh seed gives the best
results, but this is no t always easy to obtain. The actual p r o c e d u r e for raising
plants from seed is not a difficult o n e . Preparation is as for growing seeds of
any cacti or other succulents. Select suitable containers, e n s u r e that they are
clean, fill with an o p e n compost that will drain freely and easily and place the
seeds in position, pressing t h em just into the compost but not covering them.
This is quite easy as most Euphorbiaceae seeds are large e n o u g h to handle. A
thin t o p dressing of horticultural sand o r fine grit may be applied to the
surface of the compost. This helps to avoid the growth of algae. Soak the
container until it is fully wet and allow the surplus water to drain, cover with
a plastic bag and seal the top, or cover with cling film. This will retain the
m o i s t u r e . Place in a w a r m , shady p o s i t i on w h e r e a t e m p e r a t u r e of
approximately 20 °C can be maintained. Germination can take place in days,
weeks, even m o n t h s ; so d o not give u p too soon! As s o o n as o n e seed
germinates, remove the plastic covering and place in a light position but n o t
in direct sun - exposure to direct sun at an early age could cause the seedlings
t o stop growing and possibly die. Whilst young, the seedlings should not be
allowed to dry out b u t should not be kept too wet. Transplant the seedlings
into larger containers w h e n big e n o u g h to handle without damage. This can
be into 10 cm half pots or p a n s containing u p to several plants or singly into
individual pots. As the plants begin to grow and gain in size they can be moved
gradually into stronger sunlight. Euphorbiaceae plants grown to m a t u re plants
from seed are a challenge and it is well worth the effort to try and achieve
success.

5"
 Garden Euphorbias
There are many fine non-succulent hardy Euphorbias such as Euphorbia
charadas ssp. wulfenii Purple and Gold', as shown here, which will grow
quite happily in most gardens in full sun o r even in partial shade. Like their
succulent relatives, they appreciate a well-drained soil, but will tolerate a
reasonable a m o u n t of moisture. Some further species to consider are E.
robbiae which has lime-green floral heads and glossy leaves and will tolerate
dry shade, E. dulcis 'Chameleon', which is an attractive plant with n e w growth
being a dark purplish-brown colour with tiny yellowish flowers flushed with
p u r p l e and E. epltbymoides, sometimes erroneously known as E. polychroma
(the latter is a smaller growing plant with bright yellow flowers). E. myrsinites
is a prostrate variety, good for walls o r ledges, with green-yellow flowers.
Finally E. charadas and its varieties are all quite tall growing and have large
showy floral heads, the variety charadas having pale yellow flowers with a
d e e p purple centre and the ssp. wulfenii bearing yellow-green flowers. O n e of
the best well-known plants is E. griffithii with its orange-red flowers. Many of
the species m e n t i o n e d above have several n a m e d varieties and hybrids.

Euphorbia charadas ssp. wulfenii 'Purple and Gold'

E c o n o m i c a l l y Valuable Members of t h e Euphorbiaceae

There are many plants in the family that have economic benefit for mankind.
Perhaps we should start with the Rubber Tree, Hevea brasiliensis, which is a
native of the Amazon rain forest. This non-succulent species, together with
Hevea bentbamiana, are the mainstays of rubber plantations t h r o u g h o u t the
world. Rubber can also be obtained from several species of Manihot. Manihot
esculenta is o n e of the world's major food sources. It originates from South
America, but the plant has never b e e n found in the wild, nor is there any
record of how it came to be discovered by the native Americans. It is n o w
widely g r o w n in South America, Africa, and Asia. The t u b e r o u s rootstock is
used, but in its raw state contains prussic acid, which m u s t be removed before
the root can be used in food production. The m e t h o d of removing this poison

^H
is by grating, washing, and then boiling or roasting to remove the acid. When
used by natives, quite often o n e older person in the community oversees the
preparation of the food, to e n s u r e that it is carried o ut correctly. The tubers
contain about 75% starch and are rich in vitamin C. Manihot esculenta is the
source of tapioca. Another species, M. pálmala, is the source of an antiseptic
called "Cassareep", which is used for preserving meat and also in the
production of several sauces such as "Pepper Pot", from the West Indies.
Ricinus communis, the "Castor Oil" plant, is a n o t h e r m e m b e r of the
Euphorbiaceae used by m a n and is often grown as an ornamental. It can reach
a height of six metres in the tropics and produces leaves ninety cm across. It
is the source of the very p o i s o n o u s castor bean, bu t material used today in the
purgative obtained from this b e a n d o e s not contain the toxins. The genus
Crotón provides several useful p r o d u c t s such as "Cascarilla Bark" obtained
from C. eluteria, which is used to make a bitter medicinal tonic. C. tigiium
p r o d u c e s the substance known as "Crotón Oil" which is o n e of the most
powerful carcinogenics known to science and is used in cancer research. For
further reading o n the economical uses of the Euphorbiaceae, see Roger
Turner's b o o k EUPHORBIAS, A GARDENER'S GUIDE, from which the
preceding information has b e e n extracted.

A plant that collectors are likely t o grow and cultivate and has, o r may have
had, s o m e economi c value isE. antisypbilittca from Texas and Mexico. It is, or
was, the source of a very hard wax, used
for, a m o n g o t h e r things, the coating of
sweets that "melt in the m o u t h and not in
the hand". The wax is obtained from the
coating o n the plant stems and not the sap.
O t h e r e c o n o m i c p l a n t s are of the
decorative variety, which provide a large
business for the horticultural industry, o n e
of the mos t well k n o w n b e i n g the
Poinsettia, or E. pulcherrima, which is
g r o w n a n d sold by t h e t h o u s a n d s at
Christmas, a n d is available with many
different coloured bracts. These plants are
treated with a growth retardant to provide
stocky, bushy plants. To maintain flowering,
they require short day and long night
treatment. The o t h e r well-known florist-
garden centre plants are those which are
incorrectly called "Crotons" but which are,
in fact, Codieaums. These are attractive foliage plants and several varieties are
offered. Now also the "Chenille" plant, or "Red Hot Cats Tail", Acalypha
hispida, is available, with its long floral red tails, and green foliage (see picture
o n this page). Even cut flowers are beginning to appear, such as E. fulgens,
with flowers of orange, red, white and salmon pink.

59
 Conservation

The situation as far as the conservation status of these plants is concerned, is

a difficult one to define. Many species are certainly not endangered at present.
Within the Euphorbiaceae all succulent Euphorbias are on the CITES List. Ten
Madagascan species are placed in Appendix One, but all other succulent
species are placed in Appendix Two. There are no non-succulent Euphorbias
on the CITES list. Species such as E. ferox, E. caerulescens, E. esculenta, E.
inermis, E. ledienii, E. gorgonis, E. enopla, E. stellata and E. schinzii, exist in
great numbers in habitat. The danger to most plants in habitat today is the
ever-growing requirement for land, be it for farming, housing, roads and of
course the ever-growing and expanding "Leisure Industry". Farming methods
and the general climatic change to even drier, or perhaps the more
disconcerting change to wetter conditions, may also have a dramatic effect on
succulent plants in general. I think that the stripping of habitats by collectors
is not the great threat it used to be, although, in the past, plants have been
endangered by this activity. There are, however, some species which arc
vulnerable and endangered and amongst these are E. decidua, E.
ambovombensis, E. capsaintemariensis, E. cremersii, E. cylindrifolia, E.
decaryii and E. obesa ssp. obesa. One thought that worries me is that even
species that seem to be safe and prolific are often mainly mature plants, very
little evidence of seedlings being seen. Maybe the need to study a species in
habitat over a longer period of time is required. What can be done to improve
the status of these wonderful plants? The first thing appears to be that the
collector should accept that the owning of a seed-grown plant raised in
cultivation is as acceptable as a wild collected one. There is still the idea that
a commercially produced specimen is "not the real thing". Secondly,
landowners will have to become more aware that the plants growing naturally
on their land, although of little use for fodder, are important and should be
preserved for the future. In our travels in South Africa we have found that the
latest generation of farmers are becoming aware of the importance of
conservation, indeed, a few are taking active steps to protect plants on their
land. Thirdly, propagation of the rarer species must be encouraged, both at the
professional grower's level and by the enthusiasts and botanical gardens.
Multi-national companies exploiting the world's riches should also be aware
that what they do will have a serious impact the world for ever.

60
 References and further reading
Turner, Roger 1995. Euphorbias, A Gardener's Guide. B. T. Batsford, London.
ISBN 07134 70712

Martin, Margaret J. and Chapman, Peter R. 1977. Succulents and their

Cultivation. Faber & Faber London. ISBN 0 571 10221 2

Rauh, W 1984. The Wonderful World of Succulents (Second Edition)

Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington D.C.

Jacobsen, H. 1974. Lexicon of Succulent Plants. Blandford Press, London.

Brewerton, David V 1975. The Succulent Euphorbias.

Published by the British Cactus & Succulent Society.

Bally, Peter, R. O. 1961. The Genus Monadenium. Benteli, Berne.

Court, D. 1981 & 2000. Succulent E/ora of Southern Africa.

A. A. Balkema, Rotterdam-Boston. ISBN 08961 1216 & 90 5809 3239
Bramwell, D & Bramwell Z. 1974. Wild Flowers of the Canary Isles,
Stanley Thorn es Ltd., London.

Rowley, G. D. 1980. Name That Succulent. Stanley Thornes, London.

Rowley, G. D. 1987. Caudiciform and Pacbycaul Succulents.

Strawberry Press, 227 Strawberry Drive, Mill Valley, CA94941 USA.

Smith, A. R. 1987. Flora of Tropical East Africa. EUPHORBIACEAE (Part 1),

A. A. Balkema, Rotterdam-Boston. ISBN 90 6191 3322

Carter, S. & Smith, A. R. 1988. Flora of Tropical East Africa.

EUPHORBIACEAE (Part 2) A. A. Balkema, Rotterdam-Boston.
ISBN 90 6191 3381

1983 - 1996. The Euphorbia Journal. Vols. 1-10. Strawberry Press, 227
Strawberry Drive, Mill Valley, CA94941 USA.

White, D. Dyer, R. A. and Sloane, B.L. 1941. The Succulent Euphorbiae

(Southern Africa), Abbey Garden Press, California.

61
Carter, Susan & Eggli, Urs 1997. The CITES Checklist of Succulent Euphorbia
Taxa (Euphorbiaceae). G e r m a n Federal Agency for Nature
Conservation, Bonn. ISBN 3-89624-609-7

Carter, S. 1982 New Succulent Spiny Euphorbias from East Africa.

Hooker's Icones Plantarum Vol. XXXIX Part III. Bentham-Moxon
Trustees, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew.

Oldfield, Sara 1997. Status Survey and Conservation Action Plan. Cactus and
Succulent Plants. 1UCN, Gland, Switzerland and Cambridge U.K.

Webster, G. 1994 The Classification of the Euphorbiaceae, Ann. Miss. Bot.

GdnsSl: 3 3 - 117.

Witton, D. 2000. Euphorbias. The Hardy Plant Society, Worcestershire.

ISBN 0 901687 16 2

Singh, M. 1994. Succulent Euphorbiaceae of India. New Delhi, India.

Eggli, U. 1993. Glossary of botanical terms with special reference to

Succulent Plants. British Cactus & Succulent Society.
ISBN 0 902099 22 1

Walker, Timothy 2002. Euphorbias. R.H.S. Wisley H a n d b o o k s. Cassell

Illustrated Octopus Publishing G r o u p , London. ISBN 0-304-36289-1

Sajeva, Maurizio & Costanzo, Mariangela, Succulents, The illustrated Dictionary.

Cassell pic, London, ISBN 0-30434250-5.

Sajeva, Maurizio & Costanzo, Mariangela, Succulents II, The New Illustrated
Dictionary. Le Lettere, Firenze, ISBN 88-7166-473-6

62
 Glossary
Bisexual - With both sexes (male & female) occurring in the same flower.
Bract - A modified leaf at the base of a pedicel, peduncle, branch or
directly below the calyx. Usually differently shaped and often
much smaller - even very tiny and often colourful.
Caudex - The enlarged part of a stem o r roots in s o m e plants, often
very succulent. Frequently below soil level and p r o d u c i n g
annual t o p growth, b u t no t always, sometimes top growth
persists year t o year.
C o t y l e d o n - The first leaf or leaves p r o d u c e d by germinating seeds,
frequently differing from the normal leaves.
C r i s t a t e - A plant with abnormal growth, fasciated or fan-shaped,
d u e to elongation of the growing point.
Cyathium - A specialised floral structure found in the Euphorbiaceae,
appearing to be a single flower but consisting of several male
flowers s u r r o u n d i n g a single female, often with colourful bracts.
C y m e - An inflorescence which is much branched t o p r o d u c e a n u m b e r
of side branches, each terminated with a flower (Cyathium).
D i c h o t o m o u s - A plant that develops from a single stem which branches
into two and t h e n branches again in twos.
D i o e c i o u s - Having only male o r female organs in any o n e flower and
only male or female flowers o n any single plant.
Hermaphrodite - Having both male and female organs, with both sexes present.
A plant with bisexual flowers or a plant with both male and
female flowers. (Monoecious)
I n f l o r e s c e n c e - The arrangement of the flowers o n the flowering stem.
M o n o e c i o u s - Flowers having only male or female organs bu t both o n the
same plant.
Pedicel - The stalk of a single flower.
P e d u n c l e - The stalk of an inflorescence.
R h i z o m e - The thickened fleshy u n d e r g r o u n d stem, producing roots and stems
and leaves.
Tuberous - U n d e r g r o u n d fleshy root stock.
U m b e l - An inflorescence whos e pedicels radiate from the same point.
Unisexual - A flower with only male or female organs present.

63
 . [Link] Úu^[Link]'L.ií. pcûf.}y/

i7iacaríthur7í, Jg ., hbuJTíirum. tríden

EiwhiTrb

Euphorbia tridcntala Lam.

From the earliest monograph on the genus Euphorbia, written in 1722 by the
r e n o w n e d French botanist Antoine Tristan Danty D'Isnard, w h o first established
the genus and accurately described 12 species, all stem succulents, (courtesy of
G.D. Rowley)
ISBN 88-900511-4-0.