Euphorbiaceae
Euphorbia taruensis
Taru Spurge
H
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Taru Spurge is a succulent subshrub native to Kwale in southeastern Kenya, typically found in desert or dry shrubland biomes. It features unique, essentially spineless yet variegated stems that spread by rhizomes. The flowers, known as cyathia, are distinctively green and pale orange.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species thrives in sunny locations with well-drained, sandy soil, making it ideal for xeriscaping, rock gardens, or as a specimen plant in a Kilifi-coast garden. Its preference for dry shrubland suggests it can withstand arid conditions.
Growing notes
Once established, Taru Spurge is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, with the soil allowed to dry completely between waterings, typically every 2-3 weeks during active growth. Caution should be exercised as its milky sap is toxic and can cause severe skin irritation or temporary blindness if it contacts the eyes.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: kew.org, aridlandswholesale.com, ncsu.edu, planetdesert.com, infonet-biovision.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.