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 schoenlandii is a South African endemic species that grows to be 1.3 meters tall when planted into open ground. It makes a spectacular container plant and can withstand a variety of different soil types. It cant handle excessive watering and can withstand long periods of drought. This Euphorbia grows well in shade or in full sun. It is a very easy succulent to grow and will create lovely height in a rockery. The stem apex turns to the sun. Keep this in mind when growing on a windowsill.