Euphorbia tirucalli

Morphology
1. The plant body is a shrub.
2. Leaves are small in size and deciduous.
3. Stem performs the function of photosynthesis.
4. Milky latex is present in the plant body.

Transverse Section of Stem

1. A transverse section is nearly circular and shows the three regions - epidermis, cortex
and stele.
2. Epidermis is single layered and is covered with thick cuticle.
3. Sunken stomata are found in the stem as the stem is the chief photosynthetic organ.
4. Cortex consists of a mixture of chlorenchyma and water storing parenchyma.
5. Latex cells are also present in the cortex.
6. Endodermis is not distinct, so also the pericycle.
7. Vascualr, bundles are arranged in a ring. They are collateral, conjoint and open with
endarch xylem.
8. Pith is parenchymatous. Laticifierous cells present in pith also.