Caper Spurge
Euphorbia lathyris
About this plant
Euphorbia lathyris, commonly known as Caper Spurge, is a tall, upright plant with spiky green leaves and unique greenish-yellow flowers. It produces distinctive seed pods that resemble capers. The plant is known for its milky sap, which can irritate skin and eyes. It is often grown as an ornamental or as a natural pest deterrent in gardens.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Euphorbia
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Malpighiales
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Europe, Western Asia
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide, originally native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -20 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 5-9
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as the plant is not heavy feeder.
Euphorbia lathyris is a hardy plant that grows quickly and tolerates dry conditions well. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root problems, so water moderately and allow soil to dry between waterings. Handle with care due to its irritating sap.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Tall spiky form with greenish-yellow flowers and unique seed pods resembling capers. Upright stems with narrow leaves.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Potentially invasive
The sap is toxic and can cause skin irritation. Keep away from children and pets. Do not ingest any part of the plant.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Moderate
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Euphorbia lathyris can cause skin irritation due to its milky sap, which may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people. Avoid touching the sap and wear gloves when handling the plant. Keep it away from children and pets to prevent accidental contact or ingestion.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot. Skin contact with the sap may cause irritation or allergic reactions. It can self-seed aggressively if not controlled.
Uses
Used as an ornamental plant and natural pest deterrent in gardens. Its unique seed pods add visual interest.
Notes
Prune to control size and prevent unwanted spreading. Wear gloves when pruning or handling to avoid sap contact. Can self-seed and spread if not managed.