| Common Name: | Leafy spurge |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Species: | esula L. |
| Classification/Rank: | Extremely Invasive |
| Method of Transportation: | Mature seeds can be found up to 4.5 m from the parent plant. The seeds can be transported by animals and are able to float on water. |
| Habitat/Range: | Well adapted to a wide range of habitats but prefers semi-arid areas. Can be found in fields, grasslands, and disturbed sites. |
Leafy spurge (Eurphorbia esula) is a perennial plant with yellowish-green flowers surrounded by distinctive heart-shaped bracts. Leaves are narrow and arranged in a spiral formation on the stems. The plant contains a milky latex that is toxic to some livestock and an irritant to human skin. Wear protective clothing when pulling leafy spurge.
For more information about Leafy spurge and management options visit the Weeds BC Leafy spurge webpage. To contact the NWIPC about this plant call 1-866-44WEEDS or use the Report-A-Weed application.
The Northwest Invasive Plant Council will have an Information Booth at this year's BCNE, and we're looking for volunteers to help out.
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Watch this short video from the Province about invasive species and their impacts on BC - Invaders! Invasive Species in BC
