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Euphorbia
pugniformis forma cristata (from
lateral shoot)
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Description: Euphorbia pugniformis is a
medusaform Euphorbia, a thornless small succulent that in its normal
form has two to three rows of lateral shoots around the deepen tip of a
swollen succulent base.
The main stem (caudex) arises from root forming subglobose body 5-8 cm
thick crowned with relatively skinny lateral cylindrical and knobby
branches 5-10 cm high
Each tubercle bears one lanceolate, caducous, green leaflet up to 4-8 mm
long.
The species has two cristate forms; one with a cristate central shoot
and normal lateral shoots developed on it, and another with cristate
lateral shoots only, without main shoot.
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In full sun it takes a nice bronze colour |
while in shadow it is bright green. |
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Family: Euphorbiaceae
Scientific name:
Euphorbia
pugniformis Boiss. forma cristata
Origin:
Garden origin (Nursery
produced cultivar)
Conservation status: Listed in
CITES appendix 2.
Synonyms:
- Euphorbia procumbens Miller
Euphorbia pugniformis fa. cristata looks
almost identical to Euphorbia flanaganii fa. Cristata and a
correct identification is often difficult.
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Cultivation: This is a
relatively fast growing species, It like a sunny position and does best
in a mineral soil, but is tolerant of a wide range of soil types. Good
drainage is essential. Water sparingly during the summer months and keep
quite dry in winter. It can tolerate moderate shade, and a plant that
has been growing in shade should be slowly hardened off before placing
it in full sun as the plant will be severely scorched if moved too
suddenly from shade into sun.
Propagation: As the cristate forms do not flower, the
method employed for its propagation is by cuttings.
Note: As with all other Euphorbias when a
plant get damaged it exudes a thick white milky sap known as latex. The latex is a violent emetic and purgative and is used by
natives for the purpose of curing indigestion and constipation. The sap
is highly irritant, however. A case of death from drinking a concoction
of the plant is on record. A yellow resinous substance in this plant
called Euphorbin can cause terrible blistering of the skin.
Photo of conspecific taxa, varieties, forms and
cultivars of Euphorbia pugniformis.
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