Euphorbia viguieri

Native to Madagascar, this succulent plant has a stem that narrows toward the base and carries leaves near its upper end. The leaves are emerald green with reddish bases and conspicuous pale veins beneath. Upright clusters of brilliant red floral bracts surround much smaller flowers. Its thick stem and colorful crown give it a distinctive appearance in succulent collections, where it is cultivated as an ornamental beyond its native island. Its milky sap irritates skin and eyes, and the plant is harmful if eaten. Photographed in Colombia.