Cushion spurges constitute a group of spineless, low-growing small shrubs with succulent shoots. The leaves are slightly succulent and often have a wavy margin. The fleshy, in some cases turnip-like roots are also formed as storage organs. The inflorescences (known as cyathia in plants of the genus Euphorbia) can be erect or nodding. They are brownish-yellow in colour.
All species are native to southern Madagascar, where they grow in dry, well-drained soils near the coast.