African milk tree
Euphorbia trigona
Family: Euphorbiaceae
What it is like
A small succulent, cactus-like shrub. It grows 1-1.8 m high. The branches are erect and triangle shaped. They are dark green and mottled with white. The spines are reddish-brown.
There are about 2000 Euphorbia species. Most Euphorbias have sap which irritates the skin.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It suits hardiness zones 9-11. In Townsville palmetum.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Asia, Australia, India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Namibia, SE Asia, Southern Africa
How it is used for food
Caution: All Euphorbias or spurges have irritating sap and many have chemicals that can cause cancer. A sweetmeat is made from the leaves. They are boiled with sugar and the latex removed. (Euphorbia trigona)
Edible parts
Leaves
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Shazaung-pyatthat