Euphorbia leucocephala (Pascuita)

Botanical name: Euphorbia leucocephala

Common names: Pascuita, Snows of Kilimanjaro, White Small Leaf Poincettia, Snow Bush, White-laced euphorbia, Snow Flake, Poinsettia

Origin: Central America, from southern Mexico to El Salvador

Shrub with decorative white bracts. Unusual species with tiny small leaves, white on top, reminding popular Poincettia. Unlike many other euphorbias, this plant is very fragrant. When it is in bloom, the air around is filled with a sweet pleasant smell. It is a close relative of the well-known and equally eyecatching, Poinsettia. In Euphorbias, the showy parts of the plant are actually leaf-shaped bracts; the tiny flowers are found in the centre of each bract. It is a fast rowing, relatively large shrub. Every part of the plant exudes a milky-white latex when damaged and may cause skin irritation when touched. Flowering time - late autumn. Protect from wind as stems tend to be brittle. It will need to be pruned back hard after flowering to stop it from becoming straggly. Caution - wear gloves when pruning and ensure no milky sap touches the body as it may be very irritating.