Family: Euphorbiaceae

Euphorbia antisyphilitica, commonly known as candelilla, is a succulent plant native to the arid regions of Mexico and the southwestern United States. It has tall, slender, cylindrical stems that resemble candles, which is how it gets its common name. The stems can grow up to 1 meter tall and are typically gray-green in color. The plant is usually leafless, with leaves that are small and ephemeral. The plant is primarily harvested for its wax, known as candelilla wax, which is extracted from the stems. This wax is used in various products, including cosmetics, food, and candles.

Euphorbia antisyphilitica is not currently reported to be invasive anywhere in the world, although it has been documented as naturalized in India. With its ability to form dense stands within its native range, and ability to spread through ballistic seed dispersal, it has the potential to naturalize in the Hawaiian Islands, although what impacts, if any, it would have on the natural environment are unclear.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad elevation range
  
• Thrives and can spread in regions with tropical climates
  
• Naturalized in India
  
• Other Euphorbia species are invasive
  
• Consumed by some animals, but waxy coating may deter browsing and limit palatability
  
• Sap contains chemical that could be toxic or allergenic
  
• Tolerates many soil types (not limited by substrate)
  
• Reported to form dense stands within its native range
  
• Reproduces by seed and potentially through vegetative means
  
• Seeds dispersed ballistically from dehiscent capsules, possibly by wind and water, and through intentional cultivation
  
• Tolerates repeated pruning and cutting

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of invasive or negative impacts where cultivated
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Palatable to some animals
  
• Grows best in high light environments (dense shade may inhibit spread)