Euphorbia lathyris Caper spurge (Euphorbiaceae)

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Euphorbia lathyris
Caper spurge
(1 Page of 5)

The Euphorbia lathyris plant species is found in Europe. Possibly native to Britain but more common as a garden escape. It is a member of the Euphorbiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Caper spurge.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
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Latin Name:  Euphorbia lathyris
Common Name:  Caper spurge
Family:  Euphorbiaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  The sap contains a latex which is toxic on ingestion and highly irritant externally, causing photosensitive skin reactions and severe inflammation, especially on contact with eyes or open cuts. The toxicity can remain high even in dried plant material[200]. Prolonged and regular contact with the sap is inadvisable because of its carcinogenic nature[214]. The seed is also poisonous[76].

Mature Height:  1   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Woods, avoiding acid soils[17].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a light well-drained soil in an open position[200]. Prefers a dry soil but grows almost anywhere[1]. Often self-sows freely[1, 17]. Formerly cultivated for its fruit[17] - for the oil contained in the fruit according to another report[74]. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer or rabbits[233]. This genus has been singled out as a potential source of latex (for making rubber) for the temperate zone, though no individual species has been singled out[141].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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