The stems contain a white, milky sap which is poisonous. They are red to purple in colour and are usually seen in spring and early summer. The seed pods are long and slender, about 150 to 250 mm long containing a number of seeds. The species is popular in cultivation in tropical and subtropical areas. In cooler climates a heated glasshouse may be needed for successful cultivation.
Good drainage is essential.
H.macgillivrayii is also suited to growing in containers and hanging baskets as it seems tolerant of root constraint. Flowering is best if good light is available. H.macgillivrayii can be grown from fresh seed, which requires no pretreatment. Cuttings also strike readily. You may have reached this description from one of several different sources.