Flower Properties

Property	Value
English Name	Canary Spurge
MainColor	Green
PlantType	Shrub
Growth Type	Cultivated
Season	May
ImageUrl	Euphorbia-002
Photographer	DP
Location	Abbotsbury
Human Toxicity	Mildly_Toxic

Flower Details

Description

Euphorbia melifera is a large, evergreen shrub known for its honey-scented flowers and glossy, lance-shaped leaves. It can grow up to 2 metres tall and wide, with a rounded habit. The plant produces small, yellow-green flowers in clusters during spring.

Distribution

This species is native to the Canary Islands and Madeira, thriving in subtropical climates. It is often found in laurel forests and other moist, shaded areas.

Medicinal/Other Uses

— No significant medicinal uses.

Edibility

The plant is not considered edible due to its toxic latex.

Human Toxicity

Mildly Toxic - the latex can cause skin irritation and ingestion may lead to stomach upset.

Pet Toxicity

Mildly Toxic to dogs and cats - contact with the latex can irritate skin and eyes, while ingestion may cause vomiting or drooling.

Active Compounds

The plant contains a milky latex rich in diterpenes, which are typical of the Euphorbia genus.