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Myrtle spurge Euphorbia myrsinites |
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Myrtle spurge has recently been designated as a "A" listed noxious weed by Colorado. This perennial weed is often found in rock gardens and is moving into natural areas where it has the potential to do enormous environmental damage. Although easily removed by hand, this member of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), contains a milky sap that is caustic to skin and eyes. Blue-green leaves clasp fleshy stems which trail along the ground. Inconspicuous yellow-green flowers are surrounded by heart shaped bracts
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This information courtesy of the Colorado Natural Areas Program Family: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge) Other Names: creeping spurge, donkeytail USDA Code: EUMY2 Legal Status: Colorado Noxious Weed List A Identification Lifecycle: Perennial Growth form: Forb Flower: Yellow-green flower-like bracts appear in early spring. Seeds/Fruit: Leaves: The plant produces trailing stems of fleshy, blue-green alternate leaves. Stems: Mature plants are 4-6 inches tall and spread up to 18 inches laterally. Roots: taproot. Seedling: No information available. Other: The plant exudes a milky sap that can be irritating to the skin. Similar Species Exotics: None known. Natives: None known. Impacts Agricultural: Myrtle spurge plants exude a milky sap that is considered toxic and may cause skin irritations and in extreme cases, livestock poisoning. Livestock and animals generally avoid myrtle spurge and large infestations can reduce forage production. Myrtle spurge does not tolerate frequent cultivation and therefore is not a problem in crops. Ecological: Although not a particularly aggressive invader, myrtle spurge can inhabit disturbed ground and exclude native plants. Human: Milky latex can cause minor skin irritation. Habitat and Distribution General requirements: Myrtle spurge prefers dry to moist, well-drained soils, in areas that receive partial shade to full sun. It is mainly an escaped ornamental that inhabits disturbed areas and waste places. Historical: Native to Eurasia. Biology/Ecology Life cycle: Myrtle spurge is a perennial that produces new stems from the center (tap root) each year. Plants flower in early spring. Mode of reproduction: Myrtle spurge reproduces by seed. Integrated Management Summary This species is not yet widespread in Colorado, and should be a priority for immediate eradication if found. As with other plants which reproduce solely by seed, integrated management efforts of myrtle spurge must include the elimination of seed production and the depletion of the seed bank. Combine herbicide or mechanical removal of rosettes with removal of flowering parts from any plants that have bolted. References
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