Excoecaria

Excoecaria is a genus of flowering plants in the family Euphorbiaceae. The genus name, Excoecaria, is derived from the Latin word "excaecare," meaning to blind, referring to the milky sap of some species which can cause temporary blindness if it gets into the eyes. These plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia.

Species within the Excoecaria genus are typically shrubs or trees. They are characterized by their opposite or whorled leaves and their unisexual flowers, which are usually borne in spikes or racemes. The fruit is typically a capsule. Many species are known for their copious, milky latex, which can be irritating or toxic.

One of the most well-known species is Excoecaria agallocha, commonly known as blinding tree or river poison. This mangrove species is found along coastlines and in brackish waters in Southeast Asia and northern Australia. Its wood is lightweight and water-resistant, making it useful for certain applications, but its sap is highly toxic and can cause severe irritation to the skin and eyes.

Other species of Excoecaria have various uses, though caution is often advised due to their sap. Some are used in traditional medicine, while others are grown as ornamental plants. However, the toxicity of the sap means that handling these plants requires care. The genus is of ecological importance in its native habitats, particularly in mangrove ecosystems.