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 evansii or Lowveld Euphorbia as it is commonly known is normally a small tree with a bushy crown of succulent spiny leafless branches. It is an indigenous species naturally found in the eastern parts of Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces. The very spiny, light green branches hold an attraction for many gardeners who can successfully grow it in warmer climates. It may sometimes grow to 10m. The greenish yellow flowers appear in spring.