Identification and Reproduction

Identification: 

• Leafy spurge is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 1 m tall. 
• Stems are smooth, bluish-green and if broken they will exude a milky substance. 
• The leaves are lance shaped, smooth, up to 10 cm long and arranged alternately along the stem. 

• Flowers are found in clusters and are composed of two heart shaped yellow to green bracts. This plant blooms in June. 

Reproduction: 

• This plant reproduces by seeds which have a germination rate. 
• Seeds can remain viable in the soil for at least 8 years. 
• Seeds explode from the seed capsules and this can send the seeds up to 5 m from the parent plant. 
• It also reproduces vegetatively and has an extensive root system. 

Habitat & Ecology

• It is well adapted to various soil properties and climates. 
• It is most vigorous in semi-arid conditions and coarser textured soils. 
• Commonly found along dry roadsides, fields, waste sites and distrubed soils. 

Impacts

Social: 

• Its milky substance from the stems and flowers causes skin irritation in both livestock and humans. 
• Degrades grazing and rangelands quality.
• Reduces likestock forage availability. 
• Can also impact the aesthetic levels of landscape, having an impact on tourist value. 

Ecological: 

• This plant will out-shade and uptake available water and nutrients. 
• Degrades wildlife habitat. 
• It also has allelopathic properties that suppresses native plant growth. 

Management

Mechanical/Manual Control: 

• Small infestations they can be hand-pulled, but ensure entire roots are removed. 
• Make sure to wear gloves and long sleeves to minimize skin exposure. 
• Mowing in combination with chemical applications have seen success. 

Chemical Control: 

• Currently 2,4-D, glyphosate and picloram are registered chemicals for use on leafy spurge. 
• Herbicide can be applied to small patches and may require repeat applications. 
• It is crucial to apply herbicides when plants are actively growing and in seed production; mid to late June. 
• Please carefully read all product labels prior to application. 

Biological Control: 

• The use of flea beetles (Aphthona nigriscutis and+ Aphthona cyparrissae) has showed success in controlling leafy spurge growth. 
• These adult beetles will feed on the leaves and their larvae will mine into the plant roots. 

Resources

Download A Guide to Weeds in British Columbia for Leafy Spurge here.

Header photo (HermannSchachner).