Euphorbia lathyris
| Caper Spurge | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Binomial: | Euphorbia lathyris |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Type: | Herbaceous perennial |
| Light requirements: | Full sun to part shade |
| USDA Hardiness Zone: | 5-9 |
| Weediness: | Weedy |
| Pollination: | Insects |
| Ripe Seed: | Dry out and turn brown |
| Height and spread: | 48 inches (1.2 m) tall |
| Toxicity and edibility: | Toxic, sap may cause rashes |
Euphorbia lathyris (Caper Spurge, Gopher Spurge, Gopher Plant or Mole Plant) is a weedy plant native to Southern Europe (France, Italy, Greece) and as far east as China, but has naturalized in many other regions. that is often used as an ornamental plant and also to protect a garden from gophers.
All parts of the plant, including the seeds and roots are poisonous. Handling may may cause skin irritation as the plant produces latex. While poisonous to humans and most livestock, goats seem to enjoy eating it and are immune to the toxin. However, the toxin can be passed through the goat's milk.
Description
editCaper spurge can grow up to 48 inches (1.2 m) tall. The seeds of this plant grow in green clusters of three seeds. When they ripen, they dry out and turn brown.
Growing Conditions
editIt lives in partial shade to full sun in USDA zones 5–9.
Uses
editSome people have had great success planting caper spurges as repellants for gophers and voles, while others found that gophers will eat other plants only a few feet away while completely ignoring the spurges.
Maintenance
editSelf-seeds freely, but easily pulled.
Pests and Diseases
editSee Euphorbia for a list of pests and diseases affecting the genus.
References
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