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Naboom

Euphorbia tetragonafam. Euphorbiaceae
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Euphorbia tetragona (Naboom) — botanical photograph
Pl. EB0B — Euphorbia tetragona
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Overview

Naboom, scientifically known as Euphorbia tetragona, is a succulent shrub native to the Cape Provinces and KwaZulu-Natal regions of South Africa. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and can grow up to 10 meters tall. It is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils, and prefers dry to moist conditions. The nectar produced by Naboom is edible and can be consumed raw, making it a unique addition to the landscape for those interested in incorporating local plants into their gardens or foragers seeking natural sweets. Naboom is a dynamic accumulator, meaning it can store nutrients in its tissues, making it beneficial for soil health. It is native to the Cape Provinces and KwaZulu-Natal regions, where it thrives in the natural environment. This plant is not commonly used for culinary purposes, but its nectar offers a sweet, edible part that can be enjoyed. When cultivating Naboom, ensure it receives adequate sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil. It is hardy in temperate regions, specifically zones 6-9, and can tolerate periods of drought, though it will grow better with moist conditions. During winter months, keep the soil dry to prevent root rot. Propagation can occur through stem cuttings or seeds. While the nectar is edible, caution should be exercised when handling the plant due to its milky sap, which can cause skin irritation.

Quick answers

What is Naboom?

Naboom, scientifically known as Euphorbia tetragona, is a succulent shrub native to the Cape Provinces and KwaZulu-Natal regions of South Africa. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and can grow up to 10 meters tall.

Compare with:Aleurites fordii→Fleshy spurge→Hevea→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Naboom thrives in full to partial sun and prefers well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will grow better with moist conditions. The plant is hardy in temperate regions, specifically zones 6-9. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains dry during winter months when growth slows. Propagation can occur through stem cuttings or seeds. Harvesting nectar from this plant is possible and edible parts include its nectar.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Naboom for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple Naboom planting to gain experience in caring for succulents.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A small Naboom plant or seeds, well-draining soil, and a sunny spot in your garden.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when the weather is mild and there's plenty of light.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use a sandy, loamy mix that drains well. Ensure containers have drainage holes if you're planting in pots.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants carefully to avoid damaging the roots. For seeds, sow them lightly covered with soil.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water sparingly but thoroughly once a week. Keep an eye on moisture levels and adjust as needed.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun exposure and water only when the soil is dry to the touch. Prune occasionally for shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead or damaged parts of the plant to maintain its health and appearance.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soils, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting to prune.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Nectar
Edible uses: The nectar of the Naboom (Euphorbia tetragona) is edible and can be consumed raw. It is native to the Cape Provinces and KwaZulu-Natal regions in South Africa. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and various soil types, making it adaptable but not commonly used for culinary purposes.
Other uses:Dynamic accumulator
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:Cape Provinces, KwaZulu-Natal
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Euphorbia tetragona (Naboom) — botanical photograph
Naboom (Euphorbia tetragona)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

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