Euphorbia tithymaloides, commonly known as “Slipper Plant”, is a unique ornamental plant, appreciated for its elegant silhouette and intriguingly shaped flowers. Native to Central America and the Caribbean, this plant belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is distinguished by its upright, succulent and slightly undulating stems, which can reach up to 1.5 meters in height. Its bright green leaves alternate harmoniously on the stems, creating a captivating visual effect.
Euphorbia tithymaloides or “Slipper Plant” owes its common name to its small red or pink flowers, reminiscent of the shape of a shoe or slipper. These flowers generally appear throughout the year in favorable conditions, particularly in tropical climates. Thanks to its heat and drought tolerance, this plant adapts well to tropical gardens like the one at the Au Bois Vert botanical garden in Ivato, near Antananarivo.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Euphorbia tithymaloides also plays an important ecological role. It promotes biodiversity by attracting pollinators such as butterflies and bees. What’s more, its easy cultivation makes it an excellent option for urban gardens or landscaping around hotels and lodges, offering a soothing, green setting.
Plant use
Euphorbia tithymaloides is not just a decorative plant. In certain cultures, it holds a special place due to its medicinal and practical uses. The sap of this plant is traditionally used in folk medicine to treat various skin conditions, although its use requires caution due to its potential toxicity. In botanical gardens such as the one in Ivato, it plays an educational role by raising awareness among visitors about succulent plants and their importance in tropical ecosystems. It can also be cultivated to create natural borders in the green spaces of lodges and hotels in Antananarivo, adding an exotic touch to the surroundings. Ecologically, Euphorbia tithymaloides is valued for its ability to withstand harsh conditions, making it an ideal plant for combating soil erosion in dry regions. Its capacity to grow in poor soils without requiring intensive maintenance contributes to its popularity among amateur gardeners and professional landscapers. Beyond its practical uses, it serves as a source of inspiration for botany enthusiasts and a point of interest for visitors to the Au Bois Vert restaurant who wish to explore the natural wonders nearby.
Key information
| Common name | Slipper Plant |
| Scientific name | Euphorbia tithymaloides |
| Origin | Central America and the Caribbean |
| Natural habitat | Tropical and subtropical regions |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Flowering period | All year round, especially in summer |
