About Euphorbia celastroides Boiss.
Euphorbia celastroides Boiss. is a plant that grows as a medium-sized shrub or small tree, reaching up to 2 metres (6.6 ft) in height. It develops a shrub-like growth habit, and for healthy growth it requires temperatures of 15 °C (59 °F) and light shade. It is tolerant of both heat and drought. In summer, its foliage takes on a red-violet colouring. It does not lose its leaves over winter, a trait adapted to the warm climate of its native range. Its leaves are arranged distichously, meaning they grow in two vertical rows, and may have a glaucous coating. Its cyathia may grow in short or open-branched cymes, or occur ungrouped within leaf axils. Female flowers of this species have a three-part pistil positioned above a three-part ovary, and typically produce three seeds, though they sometimes produce more. The plant produces rounded, green or brown fruit that is 2 to 4 mm long. This fruit contains grey-brown seeds that measure 0.5 to 2.5 mm long. This species is susceptible to fungal diseases. Most varieties of Euphorbia celastroides are found exclusively in the Hawaiian Islands. It is endemic to the Polihale region of Kauai and the Kanaio region of Maui. It tolerates drought and grows in dry habitats, both coastal and inland.
