Euphorbia abyssinica
About
The species *Euphorbia acrurensis* is sometimes used synonymously with *Euphorbia abyssinica*, a striking, large, succulent, erect tree-like plant native to the Horn of Africa. It is highly valued both as an ornamental houseplant for its architectural form and in traditional medicine for its sap.
Field notes
Morphology
A large, succulent, erect tree-like plant growing to a height of about 9–10 m. The main stem becomes woody and sends out green side branches, which have five to eight ribs or angles. Leaves are small, leathery, and oval, and the flowers feature distinctive yellowish bracts but no petals. The fruits are capsules with three compartments.
Distribution & habitat
Native to the Horn of Africa, found in Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, and Eritrea, typically on arid hillsides, montane woodland, and scrubby savannahs at altitudes of 840–1,460 m.
Cultivation notes
It is cultivated as an ornamental house plant and a garden plant in suitable climates. The woody tree-like stem is also used for timber and firewood.
History & etymology
First described in 1791 by Johann Friedrich Gmelin, who referred to an illustration in a book by James Bruce. Carl Ludwig Willdenow treated the plant in the same illustration as the variety β kolquall of Euphorbia officinarum.
Habitat
- Altitude
- Not recorded
- Altitude class
- —
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate