Euphorbia Characias - Palisaden Wolfsmilch

Euphorbia Characias, popularly known as the Mediterranean wolf milk or palisade wolf milk, belongs to the family of wolf milk plants (Euphorbiaceae). This multi -year perennial is native to the coastal areas of the Mediterranean and is noticeable due to its unique appearance and ecological importance.

Botanical characteristics

Euphorbia Characias is an upright growing perennial, which usually reaches heights of 60 to 150 centimeters. The plant is characterized by its characteristic gray -green stems, which are occupied with small, elongated leaves. The leaves are about 5 to 10 centimeters long and have a striking, bluish wax layer that contributes to protecting the plant from water loss. At the ends of the stems there are dense inflorescences that wear numerous small flowers. The flowers of Euphorbia Characias are often greenish-yellow, but depending on the variety, it can also be tinted slightly reddish or violet.

A remarkable property of Euphorbia Characias is the milk juice that leaves the plant if the plant is violated. This milk juice is poisonous and can cause skin irritation, so caution should be advised when handling.

Ecological meaning

Euphorbia Characias plays an important role in the ecosystems of the Mediterranean. It is adapted to dry, rocky locations and proves to be extremely resistant to dryness. This makes it a valuable plant for erosion control, as its roots help stabilize the soil. In addition, it attracts various insects, including bees and butterflies that are responsible for the pollination of the flowers.

The poisonous properties of Euphorbia Characias also serve as a protective mechanism against herbivors that avoid the plant to avoid digestive problems. In some traditional medical systems, however, the milk juice of the plant was occasionally used in very small amounts to treat warts or skin problems.

Potential uses

Euphorbia Characias is used in some parts of the world as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscape design. Their striking appearance and the ability to colonize dry locations make them an attractive option for xerophilic gardens. In addition, extracts from Euphorbia Characias are occasionally researched in the pharmaceutical industry because they could contain connections that are potentially medically useful. However, it is important to emphasize that, due to the toxicity of the plant, extreme caution is advised if it is researched for medical purposes.