Euphorbia lathyris

Euphorbia Lathyris, also known as caper spurge or gopher spurge, is a species of Euphorbia, native to southern Europe (France, Italy, Greece, and possibly southern England), northwest Africa, and eastward through southwest Asia to western China.

Description

Euphorbia Lathyris is a biennial plant which grows as a tall, erect, smooth stem. It can reach heights of up to 150 cm. The leaves are arranged in decussate opposite pairs, and are lanceolate, 5–15 cm long and 1.5–2.5 cm broad, with a finely serrated edge. The flowers are green, with a three-parted style and a single ovary surrounded by a involucre of four nectar glands.

Habitat and Distribution

Euphorbia Lathyris is native to southern Europe, northwest Africa, and eastward through southwest Asia to western China. It has been introduced and naturalized in many other regions, including North America and Australia. It is often found in disturbed habitats, including old fields and roadsides.

Uses

Euphorbia Lathyris has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of skin diseases, warts, and cancer. It is also used as a mole repellent in gardens due to its toxic latex which is harmful to moles.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant, especially the sap, are toxic and can cause severe skin and eye irritation. Ingestion can cause burning to the mouth and throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Cultivation

Euphorbia Lathyris is a hardy plant that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and can be propagated by seeds.

See Also

• Euphorbia
• Biennial plant
• Traditional medicine