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Euphorbia meloformis Aiton
| Family Name: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Synonyms: | Euphorbia falsa, Euphorbia meloformis f. falsa, Euphorbia meloformis f. magna |
| Common Name: | Melon Spurge |
Name
Classifications and Characteristics
| Plant Division | Angiosperms (Flowering Seed Plants) (Dicotyledon) |
|---|---|
| Plant Growth Form | Shrub |
| Lifespan (in Singapore) | Perennial |
| Mode of Nutrition | Autotrophic |
| Plant Shape | Rounded |
| Maximum Height | 12 cm |
| Maximum Plant Spread / Crown Width | 8 cm |
Biogeography
| Native Distribution | South Africa |
|---|---|
| Native Habitat | Terrestrial (Desert / Semi-Desert) |
| Preferred Climate Zone | Desert / Arid |
| Local Conservation Status | Non-native |
| CITES Protection | True (Appendix II) |
Description and Ethnobotany
| Growth Form | Spineless succulent with a round shape. |
|---|---|
| Stems | The fleshy stem is shaped like a ball and divided into about 8 ribs. |
| Flowers | Greenish yellow inflorescence, known as a cyathium, is composed of petal-like modified leaves and either male or female flowers. Plants are monoecious with each individual bearing either male or female flowers. |
Landscaping Features
| Desirable Plant Features | Ornamental Stems, Ornamental Form |
|---|---|
| Landscape Uses | Container Planting |
| Thematic Landscaping | Rockery / Desert Garden |
Plant Care and Propagation
| Light Preference | Full Sun |
|---|---|
| Water Preference | Little Water |
| Rootzone Tolerance | Well-Drained Soils |
Floral (Angiosperm)
| Flower Grouping | Cluster / Inflorescence |
|---|---|
| Inflorescence Type | Cyathium |
| Flowering Habit | Polycarpic |
| Flower Colour(s) Remarks | Greenish yellow |
Image Repository
Others
| Master ID | 31729 |
|---|---|
| Species ID | 6128 |
| Flora Disclaimer | The information in this website has been compiled from reliable sources, such as reference works on medicinal plants. It is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment and NParks does not purport to provide any medical advice. Readers should always consult his/her physician before using or consuming a plant for medicinal purposes. |
