Euphorbia cyathophora, fondly referred to as Malaafey in Dhivehi, graces the Maldivian landscape as an erect herb with a rich cultural history. Known for its vibrant yellow to red floral leaves, this plant holds both aesthetic appeal and traditional medicinal significance. Explore the comprehensive details of Euphorbia cyathophora, from its taxonomy to ecological impact, in this Maldives Plant Database entry.
Taxonomy and Distribution:
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Synonyms: Euphorbia barbellata Engelm., Euphorbia pandurifolia Roth
- Dhivehi (Maldivian): Malaafey
- English: Summer poinsettia, Wild poinsettia, Fire on the mountain
Description:
- Type: Erect herbs
- Leaves: Alternate below, decussate to whorled above, 5-7 × 1.5-3 cm, obovate to oblanceolate
- Flora: Yellow to red floral leaves at the basal half; cyathia in terminal clusters
- Involucre: Campanulate, 4×3 mm; gland 1, bilabiate, opening narrowly oblong
- Male Flowers: 20-30 roughly in 5 groups, bracteolate; stalk 2 mm
- Female Flowers: Laterally pendulous; ovary 2.5×3 mm; styles 3, erect, 1mm, forked at apex
- Capsule: 4 mm across; seeds oblong-globose, 3 mm long, sharply tuberculate
- Flowering & Fruiting: December – April
- Native Range: North and Central America
- Distribution: Widespread in the tropics
- Occurrence in Maldives: Very common in open areas
Uses:
- Ornamental plant
- Traditional medicine: Decoction or infusion for stomach-ache, constipation, and expelling intestinal worms
- Leaf infusion used as a wash to treat skin problems, including fungal diseases and abscesses
Threats & Damage:
- A common weed impacting the growth of several crop plants
Synonyms and USDA Information:
- Synonyms: Euphorbia barbellata, Euphorbia graminifolia, Euphorbia havanensis, and others
- USDA Symbol: EUCY
- USDA Native Status: L48 (N), HI (I), PR (N), VI (N)
Additional Notes:
- The dwarf poinsettia variation has green stems and alternate lobed leaves with irregular red blotches near the base.
- Belongs to the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), known for milky sap; some members are poisonous, and their sap can irritate eyes and mouth.
This detailed entry provides a comprehensive understanding of Euphorbia cyathophora, offering insights into its taxonomy, local names, description, uses, threats, and additional contextual information.
