Family: Euphorbiaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Euphorbia resinifera, commonly known as African spurge or Moroccan mound, is a succulent species native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. It forms dense, cushion-like mounds composed of upright, four-angled, cactus-like stems that are blue-green in color and lined with small spines. This striking, geometric growth habit makes it a popular ornamental plant in xeriscaping and rock gardens, particularly in dry or coastal environments. It is well adapted to full sun, poor soils, and drought conditions. Historically, the plant has also been a source of “resiniferatoxin,” a compound derived from its milky sap that has been studied for potential medicinal applications, though the raw sap itself is highly irritating.

Risks & Threats:
Euphorbia resinifera is considered a low-risk species and is not known to naturalize or spread aggressively in Hawaii or similar tropical environments. It reproduces slowly and typically remains where it is planted, posing little threat to native ecosystems. However, like many spurges, it produces a toxic, milky latex that can cause skin irritation or eye injury if handled improperly, so care should be taken when planting or maintaining it. With proper placement and handling, African spurge is a safe and attractive choice for drought-tolerant landscapes.

High Risk Traits:

• Able to grow in dry subtropical climates
  
• One unconfirmed comment of weediness in South Africa
  
• Many Euphorbia species have become highly invasive weeds
  
• Spiny
  
• Unpalatable to animals
  
• Latex caustic to the skin, poisonous to animals and humans
  
• Tolerates many soil types (well-drained)
  
• Reproduces by seeds and vegetatively
  
• Seeds dispersed by gravity and intentionally by people
  
• Limited ecological information may minimize accuracy of risk prediction

Low Risk Traits:

• No confirmed reports of invasiveness or naturalization outside native range
  
• Medicinal uses
  
• Limited seed production in cultivation