resinifera

Euphorbia resinifera, commonly known as resin spurge, is a species of succulent in the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). It is native to western Morocco, where it grows in rocky, arid habitats. The plant forms a low, branching shrub or clump with ridged, warty stems and spines at the leaf nodes. Like other euphorbias, its milky latex is caustic and can irritate skin and mucous membranes.

The latex of E. resinifera contains resiniferatoxin, a diterpenoid compound that acts as a potent agonist of the TRPV1 receptor. Resiniferatoxin has been studied for pain-management research due to its extreme potency, and it is hazardous to humans if misused or mishandled.

In cultivation, E. resinifera is grown as an ornamental succulent. It prefers full sun and hot, dry conditions with well-drained soil, and it is drought-tolerant but susceptible to overwatering. Propagation is typically by cuttings or seeds.

Conservation and trade: In its native range, wild populations can be affected by collection and habitat disturbance, though horticultural cultivation supports ex-situ propagation. The species is valued by succulent collectors and researchers for its resinous latex.

Taxonomy and etymology: The specific epithet resinifera means resin-bearing, referencing the resinous latex produced by the plant.