Connecticut Plants
Leafy Spurge
Euphorbia esula L.

Leafy spurge was introduced from Eurasia. In the northern Midwest and Northwest it is a very troublesome weed. In Connecticut, it is considered potentially invasive.

  • Family: spurge (Euphorbiaceae)
  • Habitat: roadsides, dry fields
  • Height: 8-36 inches
  • Flower size: actual flowers less than 1/8 inch across; flowers backed by two or three conspicuous yellow-green bracts 3/4 inch across
  • Flower color: brownish
  • Flowering time: May to September
  • Origin: Europe and Asia
Euphorbia esula L.
Euphorbia esula L.
Euphorbia esula L.

Cypress spurge (Euphorbia cyparissias) is a related plant with similar flowers, but much narrower leaves. Cypress spurge was also introduced from Eurasia.