James H. Schutte
Family
Euphorbiaceae
Botanical Name
EUPHORBIA ammak
Plant Common Name
Spurge
General Description
This remarkable tree-sized, branching succulent is a coveted landscape plant in arid, frost free regions. Originating from Saudi Arabia and Yemen, it is common in southern Africa where it was introduced long ago by traders, but is now listed as a threatened species in its native habitat.
Forming a branched, candelabra-like outline, this thorny succulent superficially resembles a cactus, but is not actually related to them. Its needle-like barbs are borne on vertical ridges that divide its upright branches into four or five segments. The thick stems are filled with copious amounts of white latex sap that is unpalatable to large herbivores, who decline from browsing upon its moisture-rich limbs. In spring, mature plants produce clusters of dull yellow flowers at the tips of the branches, which subsequently mature into small, green fruits.
For best performance, provide this plant with full sun and sharply-drained, lean soil. Requiring very little water, it is not tolerant of wet conditions, particularly during winter. Where not hardy, it may be grown in a container to be moved indoors during winter. A potting soil cut with sharp sand will ensure adequate drainage.
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Loam, Sand
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Tolerances
Drought
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Growth Rate
Slow
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Water Requirements
Xeric/Desert, Drought Tolerant
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Habit
Upright/Erect
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Insignificant
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Flower Color
Yellow
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Fruit Color
Green
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Green
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Green
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
