Cow's Horn Euphorbia (Euphorbia grandicornis): Zigzag Spined Succulent

Overview

Cow's Horn Euphorbia (Euphorbia grandicornis) is a large, shrubby to tree-like succulent from East Africa. Its most distinctive feature is the prominent, zigzag wings along the 3–4 angled stems, armed with pairs of stout, cow-horn-shaped spines. The stems are green, photosynthetic, and can form a trunk with age. Small, yellow cyathia appear along the ridges. The milky sap is toxic and irritating. Fast-growing and architectural, it makes a formidable barrier hedge or striking specimen in frost-free climates. Handle with care.

Key Features

• Stems: 3–4 angled, winged; prominent zigzag ridges.
• Spines: Paired, stout, curved like cow horns on wing margins.
• Flowers: Small, yellow cyathia; not showy.
• Sap: Milky, toxic, irritant.

Care Guidelines

Light

Full sun to light shade.

Water

Low. Drought-tolerant. Water when dry.

Soil

Well-drained. Tolerates poor soil.

Safety

Sap causes severe irritation. Wear gloves, eye protection.

Taxonomy

Family:	Euphorbiaceae
Genus:	Euphorbia (yoo-FOR-bee-uh)
Species:	grandicornis (gran-dih-KOR-nis)