Euphorbia or Spurge

Spurge family. The genus is named after the ancient physician Euphorbus, who, according to legend, was the first to identify the medicinal properties of these plants. About 2000 species, mainly found in the subtropics.

The genus includes annual and perennial herbaceous plants, shrubs and trees. The milky sap contained in spurges is, in many species, very poisonous, so special caution must be observed when cultivating them. The sap can also cause allergic reactions.