Source: Wikimedia Commons
Pine-cone Plant
IntermediateEuphorbia bupleurifolia
Known in Japan as Tekkoumaru. A South African spurge whose brown stem, patterned with neat spiralling leaf scars like a pine cone, is topped by a tuft of long willow-like leaves. CITES Appendix I since March 2026.
About
Euphorbia bupleurifolia is a small, spineless spurge long grown in Japan under the name Tekkoumaru. It ranges from the Eastern Cape to KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, growing in grassland and open thicket on shallow soils with thin grass cover. In the west of its range it is harvested in large volumes for medicinal use, raising concerns about sustainability. The stem is brown, spherical to barrel-shaped, usually unbranched and up to about 20 cm tall and 7.5 cm thick; the scars of fallen leaves form dark reddish-brown tubercles in dense spirals, giving a pine-cone pattern. Leaves appear in the wet season and fall in the dry season; they are thin, willow-like, 7-15 cm long and about 2 cm wide, in a tuft at the top. Small yellow-green flowers 5-7 mm across open in spring. On 5 March 2026 it moved from CITES Appendix II to Appendix I. In Japan the plants sold through online shops and auction sites are mainly seed-raised.
Size of the Pine-cone Plant
The Pine-cone Plant grows to Stem to about 20 cm tall and 7.5 cm thick; leaves 7-15 cm long.
Basic Info
Origin
South Africa (Eastern Cape to KwaZulu-Natal)
Lifespan
Long-lived perennial (little published data)
Size
Stem to about 20 cm tall and 7.5 cm thick; leaves 7-15 cm long
Temperature
10〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Sparingly in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It prefers bright light shade. Avoid strong midsummer sun and keep it in a well-ventilated spot.
Watering
It dislikes long dry spells in hot weather, so keep it evenly moist in summer. Reduce water in winter; it rots if left wet.
Temperature & Overwintering
Keep it above 10°C in winter. When dormant and dry it is relatively cold-tolerant.
Soil & Repotting
Use a very free-draining mineral mix and repot once the weather warms.
Pests & Cautions
Like all Euphorbia, its white latex irritates skin and eyes. Wear gloves when cutting or repotting and keep it away from eyes and mouth. Since its move to Appendix I, transfers within Japan are also subject to registration, so check before buying or listing.
Pine-cone Plant FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Pine-cone Plant?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Pine-cone Plant get?
The mature size of Pine-cone Plant is Stem to about 20 cm tall and 7.5 cm thick; leaves 7-15 cm long. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Pine-cone Plant?
Pine-cone Plant: watering & fertilizer — Sparingly in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Pine-cone Plant?
The price of Pine-cone Plant varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Primary sources
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Moved from CITES Appendix II to Appendix I on 5 March 2026 (CoP20). Appendix I species are designated in Japan as "internationally endangered species" under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species, after which transfers and display or advertising for sale generally require a registration certificate. As the change is recent, check the Ministry of the Environment's current designation and the certificate before listing or buying.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Euphorbia bupleurifolia / Ministry of the Environment, Japan: Act on Conservation of Endangered Species / Japan Wildlife Research Center: registration of internationally endangered species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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