Elaeophorbia, Giraffe Tree

Elaeophorbia drupifera (Thonn.) Stapf

el-ee-oh-FORB-ee-ah droop-IF-er-ah

Euphorbiaceae

Explanation of name:  Elaeo- means resembling an olive, in reference to the drupe fruit.  "Phorbia" probably comes from the similar and related Euphorbia.  (See that genus.) A drupe is a stone-fruit.

Synonym: Euphorbia drupifera Thonn.  See: http://www.ars-grin.gov/cgi-bin/npgs/html/taxon.pl?14969

Natural range: Africa

Recognition:   Large thick-stemmed succulent with milky juice, and large thick leaves

Landscape uses:  Large aggressive succulent, eye-catching and suggestive of arid environments. Drips milky sap.  Toxic.

Internet sources:  http://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Euphorbiaceae/Euphorbia_drupifera.html

http://www.gardinonursery.com/product_info.php?products_id=880

Dan Karas inspired and contributed to this species page.