The myrtle spurge botanically Euphorbia myrsinites is an herbaceous evergreen perennial which hails from southeastern Europe and Asia minor.It is a member of the succulent Euphorbia genus part of the family Euphorbiaceae.It is believed that its genus name honors of the king of Mauritania’s physician, Euphorbus.This fast-growing plant (aka invasive species) will quickly spread to individual heigt and width of about 12″ foot.Individual stems emerge from a woody base and trail along the ground.The stems with bluish-green leaves rise at the tip. The plants reproduce rapidly and can cover large areas quickly.
This weedy, drought tolerant plant grows with rampant abandon with very little water.It will probably do fine with natural rainfall as its only irrigation.
Myrtle spurge prefers sharply draining, dry soil and full sun.It is extremely tolerant of poor soils, and it will do very well in sandy, gravelly soil.
Remove spent flowers. Evergreen but leaves tend to decline in cold winters. May be short-lived in warm winter climates.
The white milky sap of the plant can be a very serious irritant and can cause severe gastric distress if ingested.Wear gloves and eye protection when handling this plant. Wash up immediately afterward to prevent painful blistering and rash.
