Purple-thorned ferocity: Euphorbia ferox

It's summer, and Euphorbia ferox -- the ferocious spurge -- pushes forth new growth, including fresh thorns in Easter-egg colors of pink and lavender.

This succulent -- superficially resembling a cactus -- is vigorous and easy to grow. This small plant will eventually form a large clump. Its vigor and adaptability have contributed to its continued success in its South Africa habitat, where it is not endangered.

Euphorbia ferox showing purple and pink thorns.
Obtained from J Hanna CSSA Show & Sale 2011.