| Euphorbia antisyphilitica | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| (unranked): | Rosids |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Species: | E. antisyphilitica |
| Binomial name | |
| Euphorbia antisyphilitica Zucc. |
|
| Synonyms | |
|
Euphorbia cerifera Alcocer[1] |
|
Euphorbia antisyphilitica is a species of spurge that is native to the Trans-Pecos of Texas[2] and southern New Mexico in the United States as well as Chihuahua, Coahuila, Hidalgo, and Querétaro in Mexico.[1] Common names include Candelilla and Wax Plant, but the latter is more often applied to members of the unrelated genus Hoya. It is shrubby and has densely clustered, erect, essentially leafless stems that are covered in wax to prevent transpiration.[3]
The white sap of E. antisyphilitica was historically used in Mexico to treat sexually-transmitted diseases. Commercial harvesting of candelilla wax began at the start of the twentieth century, with demand greatly increasing during World War I and II. This industry largely disappeared following the end of World War II due to diminished Candelilla populations and the availability of cheaper petroleum-based waxes.[3]
Media related to [//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Euphorbia_antisyphilitica Euphorbia antisyphilitica] at Wikimedia Commons Data related to Euphorbia antisyphilitica at Wikispecies