Euphorbia heterophylla

Species category

Flower

Common name

Mexican fireplant, kaliko, spurge

Diagnostic characters

Planting unit

True seedTrue seed:
A mature fertilized ovule consisting of an embryo, with or without and external food reserve (e.g., endosperm) enclosed by the testa.

Shape

ObovateObovate:
Inverted egg shaped with apical end the broadest.

Size

  • Length 2.5 mm
  • Width 2 mm
  • Thickness 2 mm

Color

Black and brown

Texture

Scattered tubercules

Other structures

Broad chalazaChalaza:
End of seed opposite the micropyle.
with a pointed hilumĀ and an inconspicuous rapheRaphe:
A seam or ridge found on seeds.

Identification notes

There is no apparent caruncleCaruncle:
An appendage or outgrowth of the outer integument of the seed, e.g. leafy spurge.
. Seeds are very dark-colored. Seed coatSeed coat:
The protective covering of a seed usually composed of the inner and outer integuments. Also called the testa.
texture is very rough.

Noxious weed seed categories

Not listed

AOSA examination list

Not included

Nomenclature

Family

Euphorbiaceae

Valid name

Euphorbia heterophylla L.

Synonyms

Euphorbia geniculata Ortega
Euphorbia prunifolia Jacq.
Poinsettia geniculata (Ortega) Klotzsch & Garcke
Poinsettia heterophylla (L.) Klotzsch & Garcke

 Euphorbia heterophylla.  Seeds with scattered tubercles.
Euphorbia heterophylla. Seeds with scattered tubercles.