Manyfruit spurge (Euphorbia polycarpa, Bot. Voy. Sulphur: 50 (1844))

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Author: Benth.

Bibliography: Bot. Voy. Sulphur: 50 (1844)

Year: 1844

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Euphorbia

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: S. California to S. Arizona and NW. Mexico

Description

Manyfruit spurge, known scientifically as Euphorbia polycarpa, is a fascinating and resilient species within the Euphorbiaceae family. First described in 1844 by the renowned botanist George Bentham in the botanical voyage documentation, Bot. Voy. Sulphur, this plant has captured the interest of botanists and nature enthusiasts alike due to its unique characteristics and widespread distribution.

This particular species thrives in arid and semi-arid regions, adapting remarkably to the challenging climates of Southern California, Southern Arizona, and Northwestern Mexico. Its ability to flourish in such demanding environments speaks to the hardiness and adaptability of manyfruit spurge. The plant’s natural habitat ranges from dry desert locales to scrublands, where it can often be found dominating the landscape.

Euphorbia polycarpa exhibits characteristic features typical of the spurge family, including a milky sap that can be both a deterrent to herbivores and a medicinal component for traditional remedy practitioners. Its structure includes numerous small fruits, which are a key identifier and a reason behind its common name. The blossoms of manyfruit spurge are relatively understated but add a delicate touch to the plant’s robust presence.

The survival strategy of manyfruit spurge involves extensive root systems that delve deeply into the soil, allowing it to access moisture from far below the arid surface. This trait not only enables its survival in drought conditions but also helps stabilize soil in erosion-prone areas, making it an essential part of its ecosystem.

As with many species in the Euphorbiaceae family, caution is advised when handling this plant, as its sap can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. Despite this, manyfruit spurge plays a crucial role in its native habitats, contributing to the biodiversity and ecological balance.

In summary, manyfruit spurge (Euphorbia polycarpa) is a resilient and ecologically significant member of the Euphorbiaceae family. Its ability to adapt to harsh environments across Southern California, Southern Arizona, and Northwestern Mexico, coupled with its distinctive features, make it a noteworthy subject of study for botanists and an integral component of its natural habitat.

Common Names

Eng: smallseed sandmat
En: Manyfruit spurge, Smallseed sandmat, Smallseed spurge

Synonyms

• Euphorbia polycarpa var. typica (L.C.Wheeler)
• Chamaesyce intermixta ((S.Watson) Millsp.)
• Euphorbia polycarpa var. carmenensis ((Rose) L.C.Wheeler)
• Euphorbia polycarpa var. genuflexa (L.C.Wheeler)
• Euphorbia polycarpa var. hirtella (Boiss.)
• Euphorbia chamberlinii (I.M.Johnst.)
• Euphorbia carmenensis (Rose)
• Chamaesyce polycarpa ((Benth.) Millsp.)
• Chamaesyce tonsita (Millsp.)
• Chamaesyce carmenensis ((Rose) Millsp.)
• Chamaesyce polycarpa var. hirtella ((Boiss.) Millsp. ex Parish)
• Euphorbia polycarpa var. intermixta ((S.Watson) L.C.Wheeler)
• Euphorbia polycarpa var. johnstonii (L.C.Wheeler)
• Euphorbia polycarpa var. mejamia (L.C.Wheeler)
• Euphorbia intermixta (S.Watson)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• California (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Nov 28, 2012 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3066816)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:101865-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Euphorbia polycarpa Benth.)

Specifications

Growth