Family: Euphorbiaceae
Euphorbia makallensis (sausage plant, African spurge) is an evergreen succulent native to the Tigray region of Ethiopia. It is grown as an ornamental potted plant. The latex of this plant is irritating and toxic, and should be avoided. This plant has not been documented as naturalized in any Hawaiian Islands to date.
High Risk Traits:
- Grows, and could possibly spread, in high elevation tropical climates
- Many members of the genus are invasive weeds
- Spiny stems
- Sap reported to be toxic and allergenic
- Tolerates many soil types
- Gaps in biological and ecological information reduce accuracy of risk prediction
Low Risk Traits:
- No reports of invasiveness or naturalization, but no evidence of widespread introduction outside native range
- Grows best in full sun (dense shade may limit ability to establish or spread)
- Seed production in cultivation may be rare or absent, limiting potential for accidental dispersal