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
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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].

Edible Uses: The seed has been used as a substitute for capers. It is very acrid and requires long steeping in salt and water, and afterwards in vinegar[2]. Great caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

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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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