Euphorbia ingens

Both tree and succulent, a stem-succulent tree, Euphorbia ingens or the naboom is not easily missed among the contrasting leafy shrubs and trees of the bushveld. The silhouette of the tree is sometimes likened to the shape of a hot-air balloon

Euphorbias come in many shapes and sizes, some suitable for living in a small pot on your windowsill, even in its mature stage. This one needs space, becoming 12 m tall and spreading its crown.

The Zulus make boats from umHlonhlo or naboom stems after neutralising the sap by fire. There are several medicinal uses in spite of the toxicity of the plant’s latex. Still, some birds eat the fruit while porcupines and cane rats dig for the roots as one of their delicatessen treats. Big gardens, particularly those with rock features may benefit from the addition of a plant like this.

There are more E. ingens pictures on this Site, easily found by using the Search Box on this page (Smith, et al, 2017; Coates Palgrave, 2002; Schmidt, et al, 2002; Pooley, 1993; iNaturalist).