Euphorbiaceae
Euphorbia systyloides
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Euphorbia systyloides is an annual herb native to Uganda and Southern Tropical Africa, also found in coastal Kenya, growing primarily in seasonally dry tropical biomes. Its leaves on flowering branches are typically oblong-lanceolate or elliptic, measuring 1/3–1 1/2 inches broad, with acute or obtuse tips. The plant produces ovoid, distinctly 4-angled seeds that are brown or greyish-green.
Where it works in Kilifi
In a Kilifi-coast garden or landscape, this annual herb is suitable for bushland restoration areas or dry garden settings, thriving in full sun. It requires well-drained soil, ideally a sandy or rocky mix, to prevent root rot.
Growing notes
As an annual, it completes its life cycle within one growing season. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering; allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. All parts of the plant contain a caustic, poisonous milky latex, so care should be taken during handling.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: kew.org, researchgate.net, jstor.org, planetdesert.com, fermosaplants.com, ncsu.edu. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.