Many erect, very pale green, young branches have been grown by this Hoplophyllum spinosum plant after recent winter rain. Annual elongation of older, angled branches is associated with deeper colouring. Old branches below are distinctly thicker and woodier.

The generic name, Hoplophyllum, is derived from the Greek words hoplon meaning a tool or weapon and phyllon meaning a leaf, referring to the spiny leaves (Le Roux, et al, 2005; Leistner, (Ed.), 2000; iNaturalist; Wikipedia).