Euphorbia is a genus in the family Euphorbiaceae. Consisting of 2008 species, Euphorbia is the fourth largest genus of flowering plants. Succulent species originate mostly from Africa, the Americas and Madagascar. The common name “spurge” derives from the Middle English/Old French espurge (“to purge”), due to the use of the plant’s sap as a medicinal purgative. The plants are annual or perennial herbs, woody shrubs or trees. Smaller Euphorbias make excellent potted plants while larger species are valuable landscaping plants.

Euphorbia grandicornis is an indigenous plant with great angularity and large spines making it a good ornamental choice. It is commonly known as Cow Horn Euphorbia or Big Horn Euphorbia. However, the spines can be quite hazardous, making moving or trimming this plant a chore. Plant can become enormous, often collapsing under its own weight eventually. However, if kept pruned regularly, this can be avoided. Makes tiny leaves in summer where the new growth forms, but usually devoid of leaves all winter. Flowers and fruits in late spring… flowers are actually quite striking and brilliant yellow, but usually on mature plants, and mostly those growing in full sun. Shrubby and makes a great barrier plant. Can be grown in the landscape in frost free areas but also does very well in pots on a covered veranda. It can also be cut and kept short or be allowed to grow tall. It does tend to rot easily if overwatered.