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].

General Uses: A fine clear oil is obtained from the seed[4, 74]. Yields of 42% have been obtained[240]. The oil rapidly goes rancid and aquires a dangerous acrimony[4]. It is a violent poison, producing violent purging and irritation to the intestines[4]. It can be used medicinally when fresh[4]. A latex in the leaves can be converted into vehicle fuel[160]. Reports suggest potential yields of fuel ranging from 5 to 125 barrels per hectare[218]. The growing plant is said to repel mice and moles, this is said to be most effective in its second year of growth though lots of reports cast doubt on this ability[18, 21, 54, 160].

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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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