Family:
Euphorbiaceae
Scientific Name:
Euphorbia spp
Toxic Parts:
leaves, stems
Toxins:
diterpenes phorbol esters
Flower Color:
Found:
meadows, ornamental, gardens

Geographical Distribution

Spurges distribution - United States

Spurges

Euphorbia spp

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Leafy Spurge (Euphorbia esula) is a yellowish-green, flowering perennial which is considered to be an invasive noxious weed in horse pastures worldwide. The plant is of the Euphorbiaceae (spurge) family, which are known for containing a milky sap within their stems and leaves. This sap contains diterpene esters, which are skin and gastrointestinal tract irritants. The sap remains toxic in fresh or dried plants.

Symptoms

  • Irritation and blistering of the mouth and skin around the mouth
  • diarrhea

References