This variety of Euphorbia (Euphorbia polygona) , which vaguely resembles a clumping columnar cactus, used to be a separate species until recently. It makes green cyathia, as opposed to the maroon reddish cyathia of the former Euphorbia anoplia (now also a variety of polygona) and other forms of polygona.

E. polygona var. horrida is sufficiently variable, like E. polygona in general, to make rapid identification of this variety (and former species) difficult without seeing the cyathia. These plants all enjoy the same care, which should include lots of light, excellent drainage, and discipline with the watering can to avoid overwatering. They are well behaved container plants (try an unglazed clay pot) and can be excellent, easy-care landscape plants in dry climates with mild winters. Forms in cultivation tend to offset freely and form fantastic clumps over time. They do not prosper as indoor plants without the absolute maximum amount of light (hours of sun daily through a sunny, unobstructed window).

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