Euphorbia virosa ssp. virosa

Common name: Gifnoors

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Synonym(s):

Country of Origin: S Angola, Namibia, N RSA

Description: Shrubby or tree-like species ranging from the Cape Region through Namibia and into Angola. Stems are 4-5 angled and bordered with pairs of spines. The main central stem often spirals but the branches rarely (or never) do.

This species is a host for the root parasite Hydnora africana.

This species forms clumps about a meter in diameter with a very extensive root system to take advantage of the heavy fogs of the Namib Desert.

Uses: The Gogo of East Africa and bushmen of Namaqualand have used the latex of this species as an arrow poison. "However the latex is so irritant that man has tended to leave this species strictly alone."

IMPORTANT NOTE: Plant Uses are for informational purposes only. EEB Greenhouses assume no responsibility for adverse effects from the use of any plants referred to on this site. Always seek advice from a professional before using any plant medicinally.

USDA Zone:

Source: Unknown

Provenance:

Restrictions:

Culture:

Classification:

• Division: Magnoliophyta
• Class: Magnoliopsida
• SubClass: eurosid I
• Order: Malpighiales
• SubOrder:
• Family: Euphorbiaceae
• SubFamily: Euphorbioideae
• Tribe: Euphorbieae
• SubTribe: Euphorbiinae

References:

1. The Euphorbia Journal, Vol 1, pg 120, Strawberry Press, 1983
2. Horwood, F. K., Two parasites of Euphorbia: Viscum minimum and Hydnora africana, The Euphorbia Journal, Vol 1, pg 45-8, Strawberry Press, 1983
3. Mitich, L., The Succulent Euphorbias: Poisonous and Medicinal, The Euphorbia Journal, Vol 2, pg 62, Strawberry Press, 1984
4. Personal Communication with Frank Vincentz, International Euphorbia Society - 4 JAN 2006
5. Euphorbia virosa ssp. virosa in Euphorbia Planetary Biodiversity Inventory. Accessed 13 August 2015.

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