Latex-Bearing Houseplant

The Pencil Cactus or Milk Bush (Euphorbia turicalli), native to most of southern Africa and transported to various parts of Asia and the Pacific, ranges from modest houseplant size of 2′-4′ to 40′ in its natural environs. It has been reported with some frequency as having caused toxic reactions (through exposure to its milky sap). This is no great wonder - according to the South African Biodiversity Institute, the plant contains 5.1% latex, mostly resinous.

If anyone in your household has a latex allergy or is allergy-prone, this is one to avoid.