[Objective] This research aimed to study the taxonomic status of a poten- tial energy plant, E. kansuensis Prokh （Euphorbiaceae）. [Method] Fresh plants col- lected after field survey and specimens were observed and compared to study the morphological characteristics and distribution of E. kansuensis Prokh. and E. ebraceo- lata Hayata in Subgen. Esula distributed in Jiangsu Province. [Result] There was no obvious morphological distinction but some overlaps between E. kansuensis Prokh. in Flora of China and E. ebraceolata Hayata in Flora of Jiangsu based on indumen- turn and root characteristics, therefore the standpoint that E. ebraceolata Hayata was a wrong name for E. kansuensis Prokh. in Flora of China proved to be reasonable. However, the description of E. kansuensis Prokh. should be modified as follows： in- dumentums, present or absent; roots, fusiform to terete; glands, oblong kidney- shaped. [Conclusion] This study is of great significance for the taxonomic identifica- tion of E. kansuensis Prokh.