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Indian corn cob

How to identify Indian corn cob (Euphorbia mammillaris)

Indian corn cob, also known as Corncob Cactus

Indian corn cob displays a striking stature, resembling a cactus with its fleshy, columnar form. It typically reaches heights of up to 12 inches (30 cm), its surface marked by angular grooves. This succulent is adorned with conical tubercles, from which emerge occasional spines about 0.4 inches (1 cm) long, reminiscent of miniature toothpicks. The plant's green hue may exhibit subtle variegations, adding to its textured appearance. Unique in its architecture, indian corn cob contributes a sculptural element to any collection.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Succulent

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Indian corn cob

1

Succulent plant, resembling a cactus with fleshy, columnar form, reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm) in height.

2

Angular grooves mark the surface, adorned with conical tubercles and occasional 0.4 inches (1 cm) spines.

3

Green-hued with subtle variegations, contributing to a textured appearance in a sculptural element.

4

Small, cup-shaped involucre flowers in yellow and cream, less than 0.2 inches (5 mm) in diameter.

5

Sparse, small, and ephemeral leaves, 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) in length, lacking distinctive patterns or veins.

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Detailed Traits of Indian corn cob

Leaf Features

The leaves of indian corn cob are small and ephemeral, typically green in color. They are narrow and cylindrical, measuring approximately 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) in length. The surface texture is smooth without notable veins or distinctive patterns. These leaves are generally short-lived, appearing briefly before withering away. Their transient nature and minimal size are key features helpful for identifying indian corn cob.

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Flower Features

The flowers of indian corn cob are characterized by a cup-shaped involucre of fused bracts. These come in shades of yellow and cream, forming at the tips of the stems. The bracts enclose several tiny male flowers and a single female flower. Blooming occurs from late winter to early summer, showcasing their unique structure. The individual flowers are small, typically less than 0.2 inches (5 mm) in diameter, with no distinct petal arrangement, and are not known for a notable scent.

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Stem Features

The stem of indian corn cob is characterized by thick succulent structures, presenting a gray-green hue. It features prominent ribbing throughout, with ribs spaced regularly. The stem displays scattered spines, each adding a distinctive textural element. Growth includes club-like lateral branches emerging sporadically along the main stem. Typically, the stem maintains a robust and sturdy appearance, indicative of its adaptability to arid conditions. Average stem thickness is about 2 inches (5 cm), with heights varying based on growth conditions.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of indian corn cob is small, obtusely lobed, and up to 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) in diameter. It is subsessile, meaning it is directly attached without a stalk. The texture is slightly rough and the surface has subtle ridges. Often green when immature, it transitions to a dull brownish hue as it matures. These characteristics make it distinguishable even to novice plant enthusiasts.

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Indian corn cob and Their Similar Plants

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Petty spurge (Euphorbia peplus) is an annual plant from Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is fast-growing and has become invasive in some countries because it outcompetes other species for resources such as moisture and sunlight. Petty spurge latex is mildly toxic, has nevertheless attracted the attention of researchers in the US and Germany who hope to isolate useful compounds from it.
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Key Facts About Indian corn cob

Attributes of Indian corn cob
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Succulent
Plant Height
35 cm
Spread
50 cm
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Leaf type
Evergreen
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Scientific Classification of Indian corn cob

Family
Spurge
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Genus
Spurges
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Species
Indian corn cob (Euphorbia mammillaris)
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Distribution Map of Indian corn cob

Indian corn cob is endemic to the southern parts of the African continent. It has been introduced and cultivated in various arid and semi-arid regions across the world, thriving in environments that mimic its native habitat.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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