Euphorbia lathyris
Caper Spurge
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Caper Spurge (Euphorbia lathyris) - Description
Euphorbia lathyris (Caper Spurge or Paper Spurge) is a species of spurge native to southern Europe (France, Italy, Greece, and possibly southern England), northwest Africa, and eastward through southwest Asia to western China. Other names occasionally used include Gopher Spurge, Gopher Plant or Mole Plant.
Caper Spurge (Euphorbia lathyris) - Blooming
All Euphorbia have very small flowers with one female flower clustered by several male flowers. The showy "flowers" of Euphorbia are colorful bracts beneath the true flowers.
Caper Spurge (Euphorbia lathyris) - Growth
An extremely varied genus, Euphorbia contains annuals, biennials, perennials, subshrubs, trees, and succulents. Most species do well in full sun and light shade, but some species may have other requirements.
Caper Spurge (Euphorbia lathyris) - Planting
Propagate perennials by division or by seeds. Sow seeds of annuals indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. For succulents, sow seeds when ripe at 59-69F (15-20C). Can also propagate by rooting complete or sections of stems in spring. Shrubs and tree species can be broadcasted by rooting stem-tip cuttings in spring or early summer.
Caper Spurge (Euphorbia lathyris) - Pest
Nematodes, spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids can cause serious damage. Other issues include fungal and bacterial diseases and virus problems.
Caper Spurge (Euphorbia lathyris) - Interesting facts
Euphorbia is one of the most diverse genera of plants, and named after an ancient Greek physician, Euphorbus, who gave an herbal remedy made from a spurge to treat the kings swollen belly. The common name spurge also comes from its use as an herbal purgative.
Caper Spurge (Euphorbia lathyris) - Soil and irrigation
Most perennials prefer loose, poor to average, well-drained soil. Different species have different requirements.
