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tree of the week Euphorbia ingens – Naboom – Mokgoto

Euphorbia ingens – Naboom – Mokgoto

Euphorbia ingens is an evergreen succulent tree characterised with an upright growth habit. It has no leaves but has segmented arms growing from the main trunk. This tree has a slow to moderate growth rate of about 60cm per year. It is distributed throughout KwaZulu-Natal, Swaziland, Limpopo Province, Gauteng and the North-West Province.

The Naboom has a dense crown and can reach a mature height of about 15m. It produces masses of nectar rich flowers which attract many insects. These in turn draw a wide variety of insect eating birds to the tree. The yellow green flowers (with red anthers) beautify the tree from autumn throughout winter. The flowers resemble a 3-lobed capsule and do not have a distinctive fragrance.

Euphorbia ingens makes a beautiful container plant for the patio and paved areas. It can tolerate low temperatures but not frost. This tree is also resistant to drought. It is a beautiful specimen for a large garden. E. ingens can also grow well on rocky soils, this makes it a suitable option for rocky gardens.

Birds and many small animals use this tree for shelter. Honey produced from this tree is not suitable for human consumption as it causes a burning sensation in the mouth. Because of its poisonous latex, Euphorbia ingens is not prone to pest attack. The latex of this tree is extremely toxic and can cause severe skin irritations, blindness and severe illness to humans and animals if swallowed.

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