Leafy spurge

Euphorbia virgata (syn. Euphorbia esula)

Common names:
Leafy spurge, wolf’s milk

Leafy spurge (Euphorbia virgata) is an exotic weed in Illinois. The Illinois Exotic Weed Act prohibits the sale or distribution of this plant in Illinois. Leafy spurge is a perennial plant that can spread readily in open areas and out compete native plants. It spreads by both seeds and deep roots that can reach a soil depth of 10 feet or more. When the seed capsule dries, it bursts open, dispersing seeds up to 15 feet from the plant. Seeds can also be spread by wind, water and animals. Seeds can remain viable in the soil for several years.

Leafy spurge is also a dangerous plant to handle. It contains a latex sap that can irritate the skin and eyes. The sap is toxic to horses and cattle, causing illness and inflammation. It can also reduce habitat for wild mammals like elk and deer. Leafy spurge is found in a number of open habitats, like pastures, meadows, roadsides and cropland. It has also been found in wooded areas. This weed was introduced from Europe and Asia as a contaminant in seed. It is now commonly found throughout many Western and Northwestern states, as well as some Midwestern and Atlantic states. There are a number of native and nonnative species that could be used in place of leafy spurge. More desirable species may be found using the Search Trees and Plants page of the Arboretum website.Before purchasing or planting, be sure to check for any local or state guidelines on this species, and make sure that this plant is suitable for its habitat by checking its attributes at mortonarb.org or plants.usda.gov.

More Information

Size and Method of Spreading

Leafy spurge is an upright perennial weed that grows from 2 to 4 feet tall. It spreads readily by seed. It can also spread from parts of the deep roots. Roots can grow to depths of 10 feet or more.

Leaf Description

The simple, alternate leaf is narrow with an entire leaf margin (edge). Leaves are up to 3 inches long and only about ⅓ inch wide.

Flower Description

The small yellow to yellow-green flowering structures are cyathia, which are typical of the spurge family. They lack petals, but below each flowering structure there is a heart-shaped bract. The flowering structures are produced in clusters (umbels) at the top of the stems.

Fruit Description

The fruit is a tiny capsule, about 1/10 inch long. Each fruit contains one to three small brown to mottled seeds. When the seed capsule dries, it bursts open, dispersing seeds up to 15 feet from the plant. Seeds can also be spread by wind, water and animals.