Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Use Caution When Pulling Myrtle Spurge By Joyce D’Agostino


For the most part, weeds in our landscape are harmless and are just an annoyance that cause us a lot of work in pulling and removing. There is one weed however that can be found in our local landscapes that requires some caution.

Myrtle Spurge (Euphorbia myrsinites) is considered a Class A noxious weed and can be found throughout the state. It must be eradicated.  It is a violation of the Noxious Weed law to grow this plant.

This information produced by Jefferson County has a good summary and pictures of this weed: http://www.co.jefferson.co.us/jeffco/weed_uploads/myrtspur.pdf

As you weed this spring, keep an eye out for Myrtle Spurge in your garden. The issue with this particular weed is that is produces a milky sap that can cause burns to skin. Use gloves to pull it, don’t touch your eyes or skin and dispose of it carefully.