Euphorbia Species, Leafy Spurge

This toxic plant invades natural areas and suppresses other vegetation. Its roots reach down 12 feet or more, and once established it is ...Read Morevery difficult to control. It spreads both underground and by seed.

Its cultivation is prohibited in ten states and it has been declared a noxious weed in twelve others. This species is naturalized in most states and provinces of North America except the US southeast.

The World Conservation Union (IUCN) has placed this species on its list of 100 of the world's worst invasive species, an honor it shares with only 31 other land plants. http://www.issg.org/database/species/reference_files/100Engl...

I observe a vigorous local stand prospering in mostly shade. Clearly it's as highly adaptable about light as it is about most conditions.

Invasive! Invasive! Invasive! This little brat of a plant is growing in a dry, mostly shady location and I cannot control it. The best...Read More thing I can say about it is that it comes out of the ground easily.

This plant is listed on the North Dakota invasive/troublesome list and this information is being distributed in a guide developed by the ...Read MoreND Weed Control Association and other agencies.

Plant Features
Perennial, up to 3 feet tall
Plants with milky sap (toxic)
Plants bluish green, emerge early spring
Clusters of 1/2 inch yellow flower bracts appear in late May
Seed pods (2 to 4) appear in center of bracts
Spreads by seeds and creeping roots (rhizomatous)
Extensive brown roots with pink buds

Distribution
Widespread invasive that grows under most conditions. Once established, very difficult to eradicate

Interesting Facts
Roots can grow up to 15 feet laterally and reach depths over 20 feet
Seeds produced 30 days after first flower
Ballistic seed dispersal, erupting seed pods can disperse seeds over 20 feet
Goats and sheep will eat leafy spurge
Biological control agents are available

Leafy Spurge Euphorbia esula is naturalied in Texas and other States and is considered an invasive plant in Texas.