[2] Euphorbia mammillaris, also known as African or Indian corn-cob, is a fast-growing shrublet, with thick stems that are chalky green, erect and ribbed.

The variegated form, E. mammillaris variegata, is normally a beige-white colour when protected under shade cover, trees, other plants, or rocks; its white stems will become tinged with magenta, fuchsia, and tones of rosy-pink in areas of more sun exposure, times of drought, or in colder weather.

Ironically, most Mammillaria cacti are globular, low-growing plants, while Euphorbia mammillaris is rather vertical and columnar in shape and growth habit.

Care must be taken and gloves worn when handling; if this liquid gets into an open wound on the skin, or into the eyes, mouth, ears, nose (or any mucous membrane), burning pain and allergic reaction is likely to occur.

In certain extreme instances (especially if oral contact is made), swelling of the throat can develop, with anaphylactic shock and suffocation leading to possible death.