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Fleshy spurge

Euphorbia neriifoliafam. Euphorbiaceae
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edibleshrubsculinarydrought tolerantedibleedible leafnative asia
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Euphorbia neriifolia (Fleshy spurge) — botanical photograph
Pl. 1A3E — Euphorbia neriifolia
Euphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifoliaEuphorbia neriifolia
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Overview

Fleshy spurge, scientifically known as Euphorbia neriifolia, is a shrub native to Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. It is also found in Assam, a state in northeastern India. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers dry conditions, making it well-suited for light (sandy) and medium soil types. Fleshy spurge can grow up to 4 meters in height and is known for its edible leaves, which can be consumed raw or cooked and are often used in stews and soups to add flavor and nutrition. The leaves are fleshy and spiny, giving the plant an interesting appearance. While primarily used for its edible qualities, fleshy spurge can be propagated using its leaves, which are also suitable for growing new plants. It is hardy in zones 10-12, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes in suitable climates.

Quick answers

What is Fleshy spurge?

Fleshy spurge, scientifically known as Euphorbia neriifolia, is a shrub native to Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. It is also found in Assam, a state in northeastern India.

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Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Fleshy spurge thrives in full to partial sun and prefers dry conditions. It grows well in light (sandy) and medium soil types. This plant can reach a height of 4 meters and is hardy in zones 10-12. For propagation, use leaves as the edible parts are also suitable for growing new plants. Ensure the soil remains dry to prevent overwatering, which can be detrimental to its health.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
4.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Fleshy spurge for the first time

8steps

Start with Fleshy spurge by planting it in a sunny spot and providing minimal care.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A small plant or seeds, a pot if container gardening, and basic gardening tools.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant Fleshy spurge in spring when the weather starts warming up.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil with a mix of sand and medium texture. Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds outdoors after all danger of frost has passed, or start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water sparingly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place in a sunny spot and avoid direct midday sun.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun or partial shade, water only when the soil is dry, and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune any dead or damaged leaves to maintain plant health. Leaves can be harvested for culinary use if needed.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of the fleshy spurge are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often prepared in stews or soups to add flavor and nutrition. Skip the detailed preparation methods as they were not provided in the data.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

8 native · 23 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 8 native· 23 introduced
Asia12 regions
native (7)BangladeshIndiaIranMyanmarPakistanSri LankaVietnam
introduced (5)CambodiaChinaIndiaPhilippinesThailand
Americas3 regions
introduced (3)CubaDominican RepublicPuerto Rico
Broader regions
introduced:Borneo, Caroline Is., Hainan, Jawa, Leeward Is., Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, Maluku, Marianas, Marshall Is., New Guinea, Sumatera, Trinidad-Tobago, Venezuelan Antilles
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Euphorbia neriifolia (Fleshy spurge) — botanical photograph
Fleshy spurge (Euphorbia neriifolia)
X

See also

8 related
XI

Explore further

Growing zone
XII

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