Euphorbia ingens E.Mey. ex Boiss.
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Common name(s): Common tree Euphorbia (Eng.); naboom, gewone naboom (Afr.); mohlohlokgomo, mokgoto (Northern Sotho); unHlonhlo (Sw); Nkondze, Nkonde (Tswana); Umahetheni, Umhlondlo, Umhlonhlo, Umphapha (z)
Description:
E. ingens E.Mey. ex Boiss., is a succulent tree that typically grows up to 12 meters tall and is characterized by its distinctive candelabra-like branching structure. The stems are ribbed and covered with small spines. Like other Euphorbia species, its sap is toxic and can cause skin irritation.
Leaves: Has small, short-lived leaves that appear at the tips of the branches. They are usually lanceolate (spear-shaped) and fall off early.
Flowers: The flowers, known as cyathia, are yellowish-green and appear in clusters at the ends of the branches. Each cyathium consists of a cup-shaped structure containing several male flowers and a single female flower.
Flowering time: Autumn to winter (April-June)
Fruits: A round 3-lobed capsule, that turns red to purple when ripening.
Origin: South Africa
Habitat: Rocky outcrops or in deep sand within bushveld vegetation. Distributed throughout KwaZulu-Natal, Swaziland, Limpopo Province, Gauteng, North-West Province, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and further into tropical Africa.
Uses: Ornamental Use: Its unique candelabra-like shape and striking appearance make it a popular choice for ornamental planting in gardens and landscapes. It is especially valued in xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance.
Traditional Medicine: In some African cultures, parts of E. ingens are used in traditional medicine. The latex or sap has been used to treat wounds, ulcers, and as a purgative, although caution is needed due to its toxic properties.
Hedge and Barrier: The plant's dense, spiny structure makes it suitable for use as a natural barrier or hedge, providing protection and privacy.
Cultural Significance: In some regions, E. ingens is also used in cultural rituals and as a symbol in various traditional practices.
Propagation: propagated through seeds and cuttings.
References:
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Common name(s): Common tree Euphorbia (Eng.); naboom, gewone naboom (Afr.); mohlohlokgomo, mokgoto (Northern Sotho); unHlonhlo (Sw); Nkondze, Nkonde (Tswana); Umahetheni, Umhlondlo, Umhlonhlo, Umphapha (z)
Description:
E. ingens E.Mey. ex Boiss., is a succulent tree that typically grows up to 12 meters tall and is characterized by its distinctive candelabra-like branching structure. The stems are ribbed and covered with small spines. Like other Euphorbia species, its sap is toxic and can cause skin irritation.
Leaves: Has small, short-lived leaves that appear at the tips of the branches. They are usually lanceolate (spear-shaped) and fall off early.
Flowers: The flowers, known as cyathia, are yellowish-green and appear in clusters at the ends of the branches. Each cyathium consists of a cup-shaped structure containing several male flowers and a single female flower.
Flowering time: Autumn to winter (April-June)
Fruits: A round 3-lobed capsule, that turns red to purple when ripening.
Origin: South Africa
Habitat: Rocky outcrops or in deep sand within bushveld vegetation. Distributed throughout KwaZulu-Natal, Swaziland, Limpopo Province, Gauteng, North-West Province, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and further into tropical Africa.
Uses: Ornamental Use: Its unique candelabra-like shape and striking appearance make it a popular choice for ornamental planting in gardens and landscapes. It is especially valued in xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance.
Traditional Medicine: In some African cultures, parts of E. ingens are used in traditional medicine. The latex or sap has been used to treat wounds, ulcers, and as a purgative, although caution is needed due to its toxic properties.
Hedge and Barrier: The plant's dense, spiny structure makes it suitable for use as a natural barrier or hedge, providing protection and privacy.
Cultural Significance: In some regions, E. ingens is also used in cultural rituals and as a symbol in various traditional practices.
Propagation: propagated through seeds and cuttings.
References:
- Boon, R. Trees of Eastern South Africa: A Complete Guide. The Flora and Fauna Publication Trust.
- Court, D. 2000. Succulent flora of Southern Africa: Revised Edition. Struik Nature Publishers
- Cumes. D., Loon, R. and Bester, D. 2009. Healing Tree and Plants of the Lowveld.
- van Wyk, B-E., Van Oudtshoorn, B. and Gericke, N. 1997. Medicinal plants of South Africa. Briza Publications, Pretoria.
- van Wyk, B. & Van Wyk, P. 1997. Field guide to trees of southern Africa. Struik, Cape Town
- https://www.succulentsonline.com.au/special-plants/p/euphorbia-ingens-67
