Like a columnar cactus, this Euphorbia forms dense clusters, sending up stout, chunky branches from its base. Its glossy deep green body is crossed by 9 to 13 pronounced ribs, each outlined in white, and along these ridges, it grows plenty of long, sharp spines—giving it a robust, energetic presence. Native to northwestern Africa—especially Morocco, as well as Mauritania, Western Sahara, and Algeria—its scientific name, officinarum, means "medicinal." True to its name, people in Morocco have long used its white sap as a traditional remedy for skin and eye ailments, and it also serves as a nectar source for beekeeping, making it a succulent with deep practical ties to local life. The Canary Islands' endemic species E. handiensis is not just similar in appearance—it’s also a close relative at the genetic level, too see genetic comparison.

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