Euphorbiaceae
Euphorbia gossypina
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This unarmed, much-branched succulent evergreen shrub typically sprawls to 1.5 metres high, but can scramble up to 4 metres within surrounding vegetation. Its green, succulent branches, about 1 cm thick, display prominent dark brown leaf-scars once the lanceolate to linear-lanceolate leaves, up to 4 x 1 cm, are shed. The plant is sometimes harvested for local medicinal use, despite its caustic latex. [2, 3, 11]
Where it works in Kilifi
This species thrives in dry, tropical areas with full sun to partial shade and requires well-draining, sandy soil. It is an excellent choice for a Kilifi-coast garden, suitable as a sprawling groundcover, a specimen, or for restoration efforts where it can scramble amongst other plants.
Growing notes
A drought-tolerant plant, Euphorbia gossypina needs minimal watering once established; allow the soil to dry completely between applications. It is not tolerant of frost. Handle with care, as the plant produces a caustic and toxic milky latex. [2, 12, 15, 18]
Sources
Researched with web grounding. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.