Euphorbia grandicornis - 10 Seed Pack - Indigenous Succulent Hedge - Insured Combined Shipping - NEW

Euphorbia is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae. Consisting of 2008 species, Euphorbia is the fourth largest genus of flowering plants. The family is primarily found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and the Americas, but also in temperate zones worldwide. Succulent species originate mostly from Africa, the Americas and Madagascar. The common name "spurge" derives from the Middle English/Old French espurge ("to purge"), due to the use of the plant's sap as a medicinal purgative. The plants are annual or perennial herbs, woody shrubs or trees with a caustic, poisonous milky sap (latex).  

In the genus Euphorbia, succulence in the species has often evolved divergently and to differing degrees. Sometimes it is difficult to decide, and it is a question of interpretation, whether or not a species is really succulent or "only" xerophytic. In some cases, especially with geophytes, plants closely related to the succulents are normal herbs.

About 850 species are succulent in the strictest sense. If one includes slightly succulent and xerophytic species, this figure rises to about 1000, representing about 45% of all Euphorbia species. Smaller Euphorbias make excellent potted plants while larger species are valuable landscaping plants.

Euphorbia grandicornis is an indigenous plant with great angularity and large spines making it a good ornamental choice. It is commonly known as Cow Horn Euphorbia or Big Horn Euphorbia. Makes tiny leaves in summer where the new growth forms, but usually devoid of leaves all winter. Flowers and fruits in late spring... flowers are actually quite striking and brilliant yellow, but usually on mature plants, and mostly those growing in full sun. Shrubby and makes a great barrier plant. Can be grown in the landscape in frost free areas but also does very well in pots on a covered verandah. It can also be cut and kept short or be allowed to grow tall. It does tend to rot easily if overwatered.