For the identification of insects and other fauna and flora of South Africa.

Saturday, October 5, 2013

Honey Euphorbia (Euphorbia tetragona)

Family Euphorbiaceae
Reaches 13m in height and found on hillsides and valley slopes.
 The flowers produce nectar, but honey is of no value as it is unpleasantly flavoured causing a burning sensation in the mouth and throat.
 The Xhosa burn dry stems on their maize fields to ensure a good crop.
 The latex is used as a remedy for toothache.
Info: Trees of Southern Africa (Palgrave)