Nomenclature

Species name:

Euphorbia characias   L.

Author(s):

Carl von Linné;
   Sweden, 1707-1778

Principal Synonyms:

Euphorbia wulffeni (sometimes regarded as full species), Euphorbia melapetala, Euphorbia veneta, Tithymalus characias

Common names:

Large Mediterranean Spurge, Large Spurge, Wulffen Spurge

Maltese names:

Tengħud tal-ħagar

Plant Family:

Euphorbiaceae   (Spurge Family)

Status:

Indigenous. Originating from the Maltese islands

Remarks:

Very Rare and Endangered. -

Specifications & Description

Life Cycle:

Perennial.

Growth Form:

Nano-Phanerophyte (Small trees / Large shrubs)

Habitat:

Rocky places such as at valley sides or garigues. Prefers to grow in areas having stones.

Frequency:

Rare

Localities in Malta:

It is a Very Rare and Endangered plant. Locations remain undisclosed for the protection of the plant.

Plant Height:

The few specimens observed in Malta were less than 80cm in height, but it is reported that this plant can grow up to 180cm in height.

Flowering Period:

Jan - Apr

Protection in Malta:

Protected by law (schedule VI of legal notice LN311/2006) and cannot be picked or harmed

Red List 1989:

This species has a threatened status and is listed in the Flora section of the National Red Data Book (Lanfranco, 1989)

Poison:

Data not available

Photo Gallery (14 images)

Links & Further info

Buy Seeds and Docs

Submit further info on this species