Euphorbia sieboldiana

Physical Characteristics

Euphorbia sieboldiana is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is in flower from April to July. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Stems and leaves - cooked. They are boiled, soaked in water, squeezed and then eaten[177]. Caution is advised, see the notes on toxicity above.

Medicinal Uses

Diuretic Laxative The roots are diuretic and laxative[147]. They are crushed and swallowed with water in the treatment of schistosomiasis-caused ascites, oedema and constipation[147]. This plant is poisonous and should be used with caution, preferably only under the supervision of a qualified herbalist[K].

Known Hazards

The sap contains a latex which is toxic on ingestion and highly irritant externally, causing photosensitive skin reactions and severe inflammation, especially on contact with eyes or open cuts. The toxicity can remain high even in dried plant material[200]. Prolonged and regular contact with the sap is inadvisable because of its carcinogenic nature[214].