Leafy Spurge

Description

  • Leafy spurge is a perennial plant with greenish-yellow flower bracts.
  • Most leafy spurge plants flower in May and June, although mowed stems may flower later.
  • The leaves are simple and opposite with a blue-grey hue.
  • If the stems or leaves are cut, a distinctive white, milky sap exudes. One plant can send up clusters of multiple stems that arise from the same underground root system.
  • The plant reaches a maximum height of about 4 feet.

Habitat

Leafy spurge is an invader of pastures, grasslands, prairies, and roadsides. It grows in full to part sun in a wide range of soil types, from dry to moist.

 

Information from Minnesota Department of Agriculture